Fri Nov 08 10:11:19 UTC 2024: ## India’s Chief Justice to Step Down, Succeeded by Justice Sanjiv Khanna
**New Delhi, India** – Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud will conclude his tenure on Sunday, November 10th, after serving two years in the top judicial role. He will be succeeded by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, currently the senior-most judge in the Supreme Court. Justice Khanna will assume the position on Monday, November 11th.
Following his retirement, Chief Justice Chandrachud will be prohibited from practicing law in India, as stipulated by Article 124(7) of the Constitution. This restriction, which applies to all retired Supreme Court judges, is designed to safeguard the judiciary’s independence and integrity.
The ban on post-retirement legal practice is rooted in ethical considerations. Critics argue that allowing judges to advocate after serving could raise suspicions of bias in their past rulings.
However, retired CJIs and Supreme Court judges are not without opportunities to contribute to the legal field. They can serve as arbitrators, mediators, and members of commissions and tribunals, utilizing their expertise in resolving complex legal matters. They can also engage in academic and educational pursuits, sharing their knowledge through teaching and writing. In some instances, retired judges may even be appointed to public service roles.
The appointment of former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi to the Rajya Sabha shortly after his retirement sparked controversy, raising concerns about the potential for conflict of interest and undermining judicial independence.
As Justice Khanna takes the helm, he will be tasked with maintaining the integrity and impartiality of the Indian judiciary, ensuring that the highest court remains a beacon of justice and a protector of the Constitution.
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