Fri Nov 08 15:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Outgoing Chief Justice Chandrachud Bids Farewell, Reflects on Tenure and Trolls
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud bid farewell to his post today after a two-year tenure, leaving behind a legacy of landmark rulings and a unique perspective on the challenges of his role. In his departing address, he addressed the online trolling he faced, stating, “I am, probably, one of the most trolled judges… and, in a lighter vein, am wondering what will happen from Monday?! All those who trolled me will be unemployed!”
Despite facing intense criticism and online attacks, including ridicule for shifting in his seat to alleviate back pain, Justice Chandrachud remained resolute. “My shoulders are broad enough,” he chuckled, highlighting his resilience in the face of adversity.
During his time as Chief Justice, he presided over numerous landmark cases, including challenges to the government’s scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the electoral bonds case. He maintained that despite the high-profile and often tense nature of his job, he enjoyed strong relationships with his fellow judges, emphasizing that “there was never any difference of opinion between us” and all meetings were held with “laughter and happiness.”
He stressed the importance of serving the institution and cited a poignant example of a Dalit student who was denied admission to the prestigious IIT Dhanbad due to a missed payment deadline. Justice Chandrachud intervened, securing the student’s admission, underscoring the need for judges to be receptive to new knowledge and situations.
Reflecting on his career, Justice Chandrachud emphasized the role of judges as “pilgrims,” committed to serving the justice system. He praised his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who will be sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11, stating that he is “an able leader.”
In his own words, Justice Khanna said, “I never had the chance to appear in Justice Chandrachud’s court, but what he has done for the marginalized and the needy is beyond compare.”
As Justice Chandrachud departs the bench, he leaves behind a legacy of impactful rulings and a strong sense of purpose. His words of wisdom and unwavering dedication will undoubtedly resonate with future generations of judges and legal professionals.
First Piper 