Justice Sanjiv Khanna Bids Farewell as the 51st Chief Justice of India
A Graceful Exit from the Apex Court
Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI), formally retired from office on Tuesday, May 14, 2025, marking the end of a distinguished judicial career. Known for his clarity, humility, and unwavering commitment to the law, Justice Khanna was given a warm farewell by fellow judges, senior advocates, and members of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).
In his farewell speech, Justice Khanna stated,
"This morning, as the robe was hung for the final time, the weight of responsibility lifted from my shoulder... I have no mixed feelings. I am simply happy."
Reflections on Judgeship and Responsibility
Speaking at the SCBA event, Justice Khanna, now 65, expressed a sense of relief and gratitude, emphasizing the burden that comes with judgeship and the emotional significance of retirement.
He shared:
"It was only after donning the robes of a judge that I truly understood the weight of the responsibility bestowed on us by the Constitution and by the people of this country."
He also addressed perceptions of his judicial style, noting that he had often been labeled as "conservative" or "by the book." But he countered this image with data, revealing that during his High Court tenure, he overturned convictions in 33–35% of criminal appeals — a rate comparable to other benches.
Upholding Truth in the Legal Profession
Justice Khanna candidly addressed the "truth deficit" that he perceives in today’s legal profession.
“Truth is not just a moral concept but a legal one. Hiding or manipulating facts makes the court's work harder.”
He emphasized that truth is the foundation of justice, quoting Mahatma Gandhi:
"Truth is God."
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Not Seeking Post-Retirement Positions
In a rare move for retired CJIs, Justice Khanna announced that he would not accept any post-retirement governmental or quasi-judicial positions. He mentioned he might consider something related to law or academia, but not a formal role.
Remarks on Justice Yashwant Varma Controversy
Justice Khanna also briefly touched upon the Justice Yashwant Varma controversy, where cash was found at the latter’s residence.
"The judiciary sees pluses and minuses and decides the issue rationally... The future tells you whether what you did was correct."
He confirmed that a three-member inquiry report, along with Justice Varma's response, had been forwarded to the President and the Prime Minister of India.
Praise from the Bench and Bar
During his final sitting, Justice Khanna shared the ceremonial bench with Justice B.R. Gavai, who will take over as the 52nd CJI, and Justice P.V. Sanjay Kumar. Both colleagues praised his transparency, clarity, and human rights sensitivity.
Justice Gavai said:
“His decision to upload assets and liabilities of judges reflects his penchant for transparency.”
Attorney General R. Venkataramani and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta also lauded Justice Khanna’s contributions. Mehta remarked that Justice H.R. Khanna, the CJI’s uncle and a legendary judge from the Emergency era, would be proud of his nephew.
Kapil Sibal, SCBA President, emotionally described Justice Khanna as:
"A rare streak in the sky... You symbolise the best in a judge."
A Legacy of Legal Heritage and Simplicity
Born on May 14, 1960, Justice Sanjiv Khanna comes from a deeply rooted legal family.
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His father, Dev Raj Khanna, was a judge of the Delhi High Court.
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His mother, Saroj Khanna, was a lecturer at Lady Shri Ram College.
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His uncle, Justice H.R. Khanna, upheld civil liberties during India’s Emergency era.
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His grandfather, Sarav Dayal, investigated the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.
Career Highlights
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🎓 Legal Education: Campus Law Centre, University of Delhi
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📅 1983: Enrolled as Advocate with the Bar Council of Delhi
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⚖️ 2005: Elevated as Additional Judge, Delhi High Court
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🔹 2006: Made Permanent Judge, Delhi High Court
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🔺 2019: Elevated to the Supreme Court of India
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👨⚖️ 2024: Appointed as the Chief Justice of India
Farewell to the Robes
Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s retirement closes a significant chapter in Indian legal history. A man of measured words, judicial humility, and high ethical standards, his legacy as the 51st Chief Justice of India will be remembered for his honesty, transparency, and judicial wisdom.
His final message:
“I am simply happy. No mixed feelings.”
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