Institute of Legal and Management Studies

Justice BR Gavai, who is next in line to become the Chief Justice of India, described the tenure of outgoing CJI Sanjiv Khanna as one marked not by spectacle or noise, but by meaningful reform.

Speaking at the farewell function organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association for CJI Khanna, Justice Gavai said:

“CJI Khanna's tenure was not about creating spectacles or making noise for attracting attention, it was about making changes within the judiciary and ensuring that the system not only functions but also rewards.”

Justice Gavai said that CJI Khanna's tenure will not be remembered not only for judicial strides but also for the humility with which he carried the responsibilities of such a high office. He said that CJI Khanna demonstrated firm and principled leadership in addressing instances of judicial misconduct.

"In two such instances, he acted with discretion and resolve, taking appropriate steps to maintain the dignity of the court while keeping the confidence and trust of his colleagues," Justice Gavai said.

Justice Gavai lauded CJI Khanna for starting the practice of Collegium interacting with candidates before recommending them for judgeship. Justice Gavai added that the Collegium under him would continue the same practice.

All major administrative decisions were taken by CJI Khanna after consulting his colleagues. In the collegium meeting, he paid due regard to the views of the members and the consultee judges, Justice Gavai remembered.

"His conduct is a reminder that leadership in the judiciary is not just about delivering judgments but also upholding values that strengthen the public faith in the system," he said.

Justice Gavai also highlighted the historic decision taken by CJI Khanna to publicise the assets of judges, which ushered in transparency. He recalled that as the Executive Chairperson of the NALSA, Justice Khanna placed strong emphasis on the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners into society. On the Constitution Day in 2024, a painting painted by an inmate of the Tihar jail was presented by the CJI to the PM. It was a powerful gesture symbolising the potential for transformation and the enduring human spirit behind the walls.

Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, said that during his tenure, CJI Khanna did not shy away from hearing cases that raised questions of constitutional importance, even when these were at the centre of political hailstorms.

Sibal said that CJI Khanna has passed you timely and balanced orders restoring the faith of the people in Justice and reaffirming constitutionally mediated forms of discourse.

Attorney General for India R Venkataramani said that CJI Khanna enhanced institutional integrity by building values of truth, relevance, dialogue and progressive attainment

Also Read - CJI Sanjiv Khanna's Legacy: Quietly Defending Constitution Through Trials By Fire

'Public Trust In Judiciary Can't Be Commanded, Must Be Earned' : CJI Sanjiv Khanna In Farewell Address

#SupremeCourt Bar Association will shortly begin its farewell ceremony in honour of CJI Sanjiv Khanna, who demits office today pic.twitter.com/vKKVgLRknN