New Delhi, Nov 10: Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud officially retired as the Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Sunday, ending a tenure marked by landmark rulings, judicial reform, and a focus on modernizing India’s judicial system. His retirement was celebrated in the Supreme Court premises on Friday, with a farewell that acknowledged his transformative contributions over the past two years. He will be succeeded by Justice Sanjiv Khanna as the 51st CJI on November 11.
In a ceremonial bench assembled at 2 p.m. in Courtroom 1, Justice Chandrachud, along with CJI-designate Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, presided over a commemorative session. The outgoing CJI took a hands-on approach to his final day, meticulously setting a board of 50 cases for his last session, underscoring his dedication to justice.
Justice Chandrachud’s tenure was celebrated for its advancements in technology and digital accessibility, including the introduction of e-filing and virtual hearings, which streamlined the justice delivery system and improved access for citizens across the nation. Attorney General R. Venkataramani, speaking during the farewell, lightheartedly shared memories and humor, expressing that Justice Chandrachud would be missed by all for his unique presence and work ethic. “You made the justice system more impartial, approachable, and transparent,” said Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, acknowledging the CJI’s impartiality and steadfast commitment to fairness.
Senior advocates paid heartfelt tributes to the CJI, reflecting on his compassion, erudition, and contributions. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal celebrated him as “an extraordinary son of an extraordinary father,” in reference to his father, Y.V. Chandrachud, the longest-serving CJI. Sibal praised his outreach to various communities, underscoring his efforts to uphold dignity and constitutional values.
Senior Advocate Dr. AM Singhvi lauded Chandrachud’s zeal and foresight in modernizing the judiciary. “You’ve achieved what no one else could in terms of digital advancement,” Singhvi remarked, referencing initiatives that brought technology and modern tools, such as iPads, into courtrooms.
Adding a personal touch, Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi reminisced about their early days as lawyers, sharing memories of their lunches in Mumbai and expressing hope for continued camaraderie. Justice Chandrachud’s even-keeled temperament and dedication to accessibility in the legal profession were also highlighted, with tributes referring to his calm, composed demeanor and groundbreaking judgments.
Justice Chandrachud, known for his judicious reforms and progressive rulings, led numerous Constitution Benches and delivered key verdicts on issues affecting the rights and welfare of marginalized communities, women in the military, and underprivileged litigants. His judgments in cases involving equal rights and social justice, including his efforts to secure educational opportunities for disadvantaged children, have left an indelible mark on Indian jurisprudence.
During his farewell address, Justice Chandrachud humbly noted his hope to have made a difference in the lives of the people, emphasizing that serving the common citizen had been his primary motivation. “There is no greater privilege for a judge than to serve the people and make an impact,” he said, noting that among his most fulfilling judgments were those that directly benefitted individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
As he bids farewell, speculation about Justice Chandrachud’s potential nomination to the International Court of Justice continues to circulate, a move that would take his influence and dedication to global heights.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna, in a touching tribute, shared anecdotes about CJI Chandrachud’s disciplined lifestyle, early morning routines, and vegan diet, noting the significant advancements his predecessor brought to the Supreme Court. Justice Khanna reflected that stepping into Justice Chandrachud’s shoes would be a challenge, given the high standards he set.
Justice Chandrachud’s retirement marks the close of a transformative era in the Indian judiciary, celebrated with a mix of nostalgia, admiration, and humor. As he leaves the bench, his legacy is assured, with his judgments and reforms set to resonate in Indian legal history for generations to come.