Why Chief Justice-Designate Sanjiv Khanna Had to Abandon His Morning Walks

Justice Sanjiv Khanna to Give Up His Morning Walks After Being Appointed Chief Justice of India

Justice Sanjiv Khanna is set to take the oath as the 51st Chief Justice of India on Monday, but his new role has already led him to give up a cherished routine—his solitary morning walks. Sources revealed that every morning, Justice Khanna would take long walks alone around Lodhi Garden and his neighborhood, where he felt he could enjoy some solitude without being recognized. However, after his appointment as Chief Justice was announced late last month, he was advised to have a security personnel accompany him during his walks. Not comfortable with this change, Justice Khanna decided to forgo his morning walks entirely.

Justice Khanna, who completed his schooling at Modern School in Barakhamba Road, his graduation at St. Stephen’s College, and his law degree from Delhi University’s Campus Law Centre, is very familiar with Delhi’s streets. Sources mentioned that the Chief Justice-designate remains in close contact with friends from his school, college, and law days and prefers driving to their homes personally.

His friends describe him as simple, calm, and private, often staying away from the public eye. One notable instance of his low-key nature occurred during the May Lok Sabha elections. While reporters waited for him to cast his vote at the Nirman Bhawan polling station, Justice Khanna quietly drove to the station in his personal car without the usual security detail, leaving the reporters surprised as they had expected an official car.

Justice Khanna’s term as Chief Justice will last six months, with his retirement scheduled for May 13, 2025.

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