Delhi gang rape verdict: Who is Judge Yogesh Khanna?

He, today, convicted four of the six accused in the Delhi gang rape case on the charges of rape and murder

Additional Sessions Judge Yogesh Khanna is the man who has convicted four of the six accused in the Delhi gang rape case on the charges of rape and murder of the victim.

At 12:40 pm today, Judge Yogesh Khanna pronounced his verdict, "I convict all of the accused. They have been found guilty of gang rape, unnatural offences, destruction of evidence and for committing the murder of the helpless victim."

Handpicked to try a case that gained attention from all over the globe, Judge Yogesh Khanna is best described as balanced, dedicated, patient and efficient by India Today.

The legal fraternity in the Capital says ASJ Khanna was chosen to try the case because of his impeccable track record, cool-headedness and a balanced approach towards cases.

Many believe that the patience portrayed by him during his cases makes him a favourite among lawyers.

Judge Khanna, who has been practising law since 1992, is expected to be promoted to the position of district judge after the disposal of the Dec 16 gang rape case. He has often been faced with a lot of criticism during the 9 months of the rape case proceedings, mainly due to the extended period the case went on for. His legal colleagues, however, feel that criticism against him has been unfair, saying that Khanna ensures a fair trail by not rushing through one.  

Judge Khanna also ticked off the defence team during the trial for what he thought were 'delaying tactics' and announced his intention of pronouncing his verdict on September 10.

He lost both his parents, due to which he had called off the proceedings of the case on February 27. However, his prompt return to work on March 4 has been a sure shot proof of his dedication towards the case and his job.