Former Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, addressed the delay in vacating his government residence post-retirement and the controversy surrounding remarks by current CJI BR Gavai, asserting that everyone is entitled to their opinion.
During Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia's farewell, CJI Gavai remarked, 'Some vacate on the very next day.' Many interpreted this as a dig at Chandrachud.
CJI Gavai assured that he would vacate his government residence within the stipulated period upon his retirement this November.
When asked if Gavai's remarks were aimed at him, Chandrachud refrained from commenting, emphasizing respect for institutional opinions and the right to personal beliefs.
In an unusual move, the Supreme Court administration wrote to the Center in July, indicating that the allotted time for former CJI Chandrachud had expired, necessitating the vacation of the official residence. Consequently, Chandrachud vacated his government residence on Krishna Menon Marg, Delhi, in early August.
In a discussion with Aaj Tak’s Lallantop, Chandrachud reflected, 'I was once in the same position as CJI Gavai. Respect for colleagues strengthens institutions. I won’t elaborate on Gavai's remark as it's neither appropriate for me nor the institution.'
While discussing the residence issue, Justice Chandrachud revealed the family's hardships due to his daughters' health. He explained, 'Finding a suitable house was challenging. People assume that life is simple for a former Chief Justice, but our two daughters have a rare condition, nemaline myopathy, with ongoing research but no cure.'
He and his wife, Kalpana, evaluated about 60-70 homes but failed to find a suitable one for their children. His elderly parents' fragile health added to the challenges. He requested an additional two months at the government residence, clarifying that he did not reside there for free during this period.
