Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s Vision for a User-Friendly Judiciary
New Delhi, November 11: Sanjiv Khanna has been appointed as the 51st Chief Justice of India. He aims to make courts more approachable and user-friendly, emphasizing the judiciary’s role as an independent part of governance. Justice Khanna, who took the oath administered by President Droupadi Murmu, plans to tackle case backlogs, simplify legal procedures, and make litigation affordable.
Justice Khanna highlighted the judiciary’s responsibility as a constitutional guardian and protector of fundamental rights. He intends to adopt a self-evaluative approach, making judgments understandable and promoting mediation. His focus is on providing equal treatment and fair opportunities to all, regardless of status or wealth.
Justice Khanna also aims to reform criminal case management, reduce trial durations, and ensure the justice process is not burdensome for citizens. He succeeded Justice DY Chandrachud and will serve a six-month tenure, retiring on May 13, 2025.
Justice Khanna, born on May 14, 1960, is the son of former Delhi High Court judge Justice Dev Raj Khanna and nephew of former Supreme Court judge HR Khanna. He has been involved in landmark judgments, including those on Electronic Voting Machines and Article 370. He began his legal career in 1983 and has served in various capacities, including as a judge of the Supreme Court since 2019.
Doubts Revealed
Chief Justice -: The Chief Justice is the head of the Supreme Court, which is the highest court in India. They make important decisions about laws and justice in the country.
Sanjiv Khanna -: Sanjiv Khanna is a judge who has been chosen to be the Chief Justice of India. He is responsible for leading the Supreme Court and improving the justice system.
User-Friendly Judiciary -: A user-friendly judiciary means making the court system easier for people to understand and use. This includes simplifying legal processes and making sure everyone is treated fairly.
Case Backlogs -: Case backlogs refer to the large number of court cases that are waiting to be resolved. Reducing backlogs means solving these cases faster so people don’t have to wait too long for justice.
President Droupadi Murmu -: Droupadi Murmu is the President of India, a position similar to the head of the country. She has the authority to administer oaths to important officials like the Chief Justice.
Justice DY Chandrachud -: Justice DY Chandrachud was the Chief Justice before Sanjiv Khanna. He served in the same role and was responsible for leading the Supreme Court.
Tenure -: Tenure refers to the period of time someone holds a particular position or job. In this case, Sanjiv Khanna will be Chief Justice for six months.