A Humorous Send-off
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud marked his final day in office on November 8, 2024, with a poignant farewell message delivered from the ceremonial bench. He expressed gratitude for his time as the 50th head of the Indian judiciary and reflected on his experiences with a mix of humor and humility. “If I have ever hurt anyone in the court, please forgive me for that,” he quoted the Jain phrase “Michhami Dukkadam,” which translates to “May all my misdeeds be forgiven.”
Contentment in Service
As he concluded his tenure, Justice Chandrachud shared his feelings of satisfaction, stating, “I won’t be able to deliver justice from tomorrow, but I am content.” He assumed office on November 9, 2022, and will be succeeded by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the current first puisne judge at the Supreme Court, who will take the oath as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11.
Light-hearted Moments
Reflecting on his final days, he recounted a light-hearted exchange with his registrar regarding the timing of his farewell ceremony. “When my registrar asked me what time the ceremony should begin, I said 2 pm, wondering if anyone would actually be here on a Friday afternoon,” he joked, highlighting the camaraderie within the court.
Tribute to Past Judges
Justice Chandrachud paid homage to the esteemed judges who came before him, acknowledging their contributions and emphasizing the weight of the judicial role. He likened judges to pilgrims who arrive daily with a commitment to serve, stressing the profound impact their work can have on the lives of individuals.
Confidence in Successor
In welcoming Justice Sanjiv Khanna as his successor, he expressed his trust in Khanna’s leadership capabilities, stating that he was leaving the bench in capable hands. This sentiment was echoed by members of the bar, who referred to Chandrachud as “a rock star” of the judiciary for his progressive approach to complex legal issues.
Legacy of Addressing Complex Issues
Supreme Court Bar Association President Kapil Sibal praised Justice Chandrachud for his willingness to tackle contentious topics that previous chief justices hesitated to address, such as Article 370, same-sex marriage, and electoral bonds. “We may not agree with you, but we must salute you for being ready to deal with those complexities,” Sibal noted.
Conclusion
Justice DY Chandrachud leaves behind a legacy of commitment, humor, and courage in facing difficult legal challenges. As he steps down, the judiciary prepares to welcome a new chapter under Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s leadership, ensuring the continuity of service and dedication to justice in India.
