WHEN JUSTICE RUNS IN VEINS

OR Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who took oath as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11, sticking to the letter of the law and living up to its spirit have been like walking on a razor's edge at times.

- SUCHITRA KALYAN MOHANTY

But in a legal career spanning over four decades, he has often done it with a rare conviction.

His landmark judgements and observations in court bear witness to that. Also testifying to his honesty, acumen and hard work are some of those who have worked alongside and under him.

A lawyer who has practised as an advocate-on-record (AOR) under Justice Khanna remembered: "In one case, he had already taken his professional fee as a lawyer after winning the case. Yet, his client gave him an envelope containing cash and quickly turned on his heels."

"When informed, Khanna rushed downstairs from his first-floor office, caught hold of the client and returned the packet, firmly telling him that he had already received his professional fees as a lawyer and didn't need more," the AOR said.

Another observation about his professionalism related to CJI Khanna's father, Justice Dev Raj Khanna, a former judge of the Delhi High Court.