Justice BR Gavai, the next in line to become the Chief Justice of India, praised the tenure of outgoing Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, highlighting his focus on meaningful reforms rather than creating spectacles or making noise. Justice Gavai made these remarks during a farewell function organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association to honor CJI Khanna.
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"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 BR Gavai
Justice Gavai emphasized that CJI Khanna's leadership was marked by humility and principled decision-making. He noted that Khanna’s tenure was not just about delivering judgments but also about maintaining ethical standards and addressing judicial misconduct with a balanced approach.
Justice Gavai highlighted two instances where CJI Khanna took decisive actions against judicial misconduct, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the dignity of the judiciary. According to Gavai, these actions were taken with discretion, ensuring the confidence and trust of his colleagues remained intact.
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He further appreciated CJI Khanna for initiating the practice of the Collegium interacting with candidates before recommending them for judgeship. Gavai affirmed that this practice would continue under his leadership.
"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." — Justice BR Gavai
Justice Gavai also acknowledged CJI Khanna's decision to publicize the assets of judges, promoting transparency in the judiciary. He mentioned that as the Executive Chairperson of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), Khanna focused on the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners into society.
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A notable gesture by CJI Khanna was on Constitution Day in 2024, where he presented a painting by an inmate of Tihar Jail to the Prime Minister. This act, as Justice Gavai noted, symbolized the potential for transformation and highlighted the human spirit behind prison walls.
Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, also praised CJI Khanna, stating that he did not shy away from hearing cases of constitutional importance, even when they were politically sensitive. Sibal highlighted how Khanna’s balanced orders reinforced public faith in the judiciary.
Attorney General for India, R Venkataramani, also commended CJI Khanna for enhancing institutional integrity by upholding values of truth, dialogue, and progressive development.
"CJI Khanna has passed you timely and balanced orders restoring the faith of the people in justice and reaffirming constitutionally mediated forms of discourse." — Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal
Justice Gavai's tribute to CJI Khanna reflected the latter's impactful leadership, which combined ethical decision-making, transparency, and meaningful reforms within the Indian judiciary.
