On Friday, a farewell ceremony was held at the Supreme Court on Chief Justice DY Chandrachud's last day. He shared important insights about his family, parents, personal life, and career. Chandrachud remarked, 'We judges rule on complex matters, but our decisions' impact on everyday lives is most crucial.'
What's in store for Monday?
On his final day, Justice DY Chandrachud laughingly admitted, 'I'm perhaps the most trolled figure. But I'm anxious, as those who troll me will be jobless come Monday.' His shoulders, he asserted, are strong enough to bear criticism, especially in this age of social media. Transparently sharing his personal life was a choice he made, willingly facing critique.
He quoted Urdu poet Bashir Badr, "Opposition polishes my character; I deeply respect my adversaries." Despite facing significant trolling, CJ Chandrachud remained transparent and firmly committed to reforms, famously quoting, "Sunlight is the best disinfectant."
A poignant farewell address by CJI
Amidst his final moments as Chief Justice, Chandrachud shared his gratitude and humility. Surrounded by peers, he conveyed personal experiences and tendered apologies to those unintentionally hurt by his actions.
Recalling a moment, he mentioned, 'When asked by my registrar about the ceremony timing, I mused, would anyone be here at 2 PM on a Friday, or would it be just me viewing an empty screen?'
Justice Chandrachud cherished Indian judiciary traditions, observing as a young lawyer the art of argument and the crucial skills honed in court. In his words, "We work as pilgrims, our roles pivotal in shaping any case. Great judges, who adorned this court, have left a lasting legacy."
Praised his successor Justice Sanjiv Khanna
Complimenting his successor Justice Sanjiv Khanna, he expressed confidence that Khanna's dignified grace would seamlessly carry forward the court's legacy.
Discussing motivational sources throughout his career, he shared, "You ask what inspires me; it's the journey of a judge. Thank you all, you've taught me so much about law and life. Even today, resolving 45 cases, I've learned much about life."
Chandrachud's touching gesture asking for forgiveness, 'If I've ever wronged anyone, I seek your forgiveness, it was never my intent.' showcased his humility.
His final day saw senior advocates and judiciary members pay tribute to Chandrachud's influential contributions to India's judicial landscape, celebrating both his legal acumen and humanitarian approach.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud's reflections
At his farewell, he shared reflective stories about his father and judicial experiences. His father's disciplined lifestyle never burdened the family. Recalling a lesson from his father about buying a flat in Pune, Chandrachud expressed gratitude for the wisdom imparted, ensuring security over his integrity.
Impact on common citizens matters: CJI
On judicial motivation, he emphasized the real-life impact of judicial decisions. Recently, granting interview access to visually impaired candidates in the Rajasthan judicial exam and intervention in educational opportunities for disadvantaged students motivated his judicial path.
Reflecting on time spent in Allahabad, Chandrachud noted how it transformed his judicial outlook.
Recalling early days in Allahabad
His recollections of being adorned with garlands at high court events were fondly shared. Gadling on the occasion, he said, 'My wife used to hate the marigold stains, leading me to suggest not bothering with flowers. Yet, they were for photos, not just pageantry.'
Remembered his mother
Reminiscing about his mother, he recited a childhood shloka to highlight its loving significance, much beyond just enduring bitter medicine. 'Medicines are regal like the Ganges, and doctors akin to the divine Narayan,' he recalled, acknowledging the enduring care of his mother.
His childhood memories painted an image of a sickly child, watched over by a devoted mother chanting shlokas offering healing comfort.
Kapil Sibal's tribute
During his farewell remarks, SC Bar Association president Kapil Sibal referenced key judgments and praised Chandrachud for his simplicity, patience, and calmness. Sibal warmly acknowledged his roles in protecting disabled rights, bolstering individual dignity, and breaking societal barriers.
Sibal acclaimed Chandrachud's openness, 'Even when we disagree, you always listened. A trailblazer you are, addressing ignored issues with your unique legal passion.' Closing with a poetic tribute, Sibal said, "I wish to stay right at the start, you're a class apart..."
Emotional moments shared by Attorney General
At the event, the Attorney General honored the CJ's humanistic values. By enabling workplace flexibility for women and nursery services within court premises, Chandrachud's sensitivity left an indelible mark on his court's diaries.
Remarks by the new CJI
Newly appointed CJI Sanjiv Khanna praised his predecessor, comparing him to a retreating grand tree leaving a lasting impact. He admired Chandrachud's extensive knowledge, introducing inclusivity, and pioneering special facilities in the court.
