Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna: A Reflection on His Judicial Legacy

Sanjiv Khanna, the current Chief Justice of India, has had a remarkable career marked by his sharp intellect, unwavering integrity, and profound commitment to upholding the rule of law. Born in Delhi in 1960, Khanna was drawn to the legal profession from a young age, inspired by his father, a renowned lawyer. After completing his law degree from the University of Delhi, he began his practice in the district courts of Delhi, quickly establishing a reputation for his meticulous preparation, incisive analysis, and persuasive advocacy.
In 2019, Khanna was elevated to the Supreme Court of India, where he has since presided over several landmark cases. His judgments have been widely praised for their clarity, depth of reasoning, and unwavering commitment to constitutional values. One of the most significant cases he adjudicated was the challenge to the electoral bonds scheme, which Khanna declared unconstitutional, reaffirming the importance of transparency and accountability in electoral funding.
Beyond his judicial rulings, Khanna is also known for his thought-provoking speeches and writings on a wide range of legal and social issues. In a speech delivered at the India International Centre in 2021, he eloquently articulated the role of the judiciary in a democratic society, emphasizing the importance of judicial independence, impartiality, and accountability. He has also written extensively on topics such as the right to privacy, the protection of human rights, and the need for judicial reforms.
Khanna's contributions to the Indian legal system have been widely recognized. In 2023, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, one of India's highest civilian honors, in recognition of his exceptional services to the nation. As he nears the end of his tenure as Chief Justice, the legal fraternity and the nation as a whole will undoubtedly look back on his time with gratitude and admiration.
One of the most notable aspects of Khanna's judicial philosophy is his emphasis on the need to balance individual rights with the larger societal interests. In a judgment on the legality of euthanasia, Khanna recognized the individual's right to die with dignity but also emphasized the importance of protecting society from the potential abuse of such a right. This balanced approach is a hallmark of his jurisprudence, which seeks to strike a harmonious equilibrium between the rights of the individual and the well-being of the community.
Reflecting on his judicial journey, Khanna once remarked, "The law is not merely a set of rules and regulations; it is a living, breathing entity that must constantly evolve to meet the changing needs of society." These words encapsulate his approach to the law, which is characterized by a deep understanding of both the letter and the spirit of the Constitution, and a willingness to adapt to the demands of a dynamic society.
Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna's tenure has been characterized by his steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law, his dedication to protecting the rights of all citizens, and his tireless efforts to strengthen the institution of the judiciary. As he prepares to hand over the reins of the Supreme Court, India can be proud of the legacy he leaves behind, a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of legal professionals and shape the contours of Indian jurisprudence for years to come.