On the eve of his retirement, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud delivered a heartfelt speech at his farewell function, sharing insights about his tenure and personal experiences. With his retirement set for November 10, CJI Chandrachud reflected on his achievements, the challenges he faced, and the future of India’s judiciary. During the event, he spoke candidly about the public criticisms he had received, the ongoing efforts to tackle the case backlog in the Supreme Court, and the influence of his father’s values on his career.
In his speech, CJI Chandrachud addressed the topic of criticism, acknowledging that he had been subjected to much public scrutiny, particularly on social media. He humorously remarked, “Sunlight is the best disinfectant,” explaining how his decision to expose his personal life to the public eye inevitably invited criticism. “My shoulders are broad enough to accept all the criticism that we have faced,” he added.
He then jokingly turned the spotlight on his critics, quipping, “In a lighter vein, I am wondering what will happen from Monday. All those who trolled me will be rendered unemployed.” This remark lightened the mood of the gathering, showcasing his ability to face adversity with humor and grace.
CJI Chandrachud’s tenure has been marked by significant decisions and reforms, but it was not without its share of controversies. One such instance occurred when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Chief Justice’s residence for a puja, which sparked criticism from the opposition. Despite this, CJI Chandrachud maintained a calm and composed stance, emphasizing his ability to remain unaffected by public opinion.
A key aspect of CJI Chandrachud’s tenure has been his efforts to reduce the backlog of cases in the Supreme Court. At the time of his appointment as Chief Justice, the Supreme Court was facing a massive pile-up of cases, some of which had been languishing for years. He shared a revealing anecdote about his first day in office, when he discovered nearly 1,500 files stashed away in a registrar’s cupboard. “I said this has to change,” he remarked, illustrating his commitment to addressing the inefficiency within the court system.
CJI Chandrachud highlighted the progress made during his tenure. From November 9, 2022, to November 1, 2024, over 1.11 lakh cases were filed, and 5.33 lakh cases were listed, with 1.07 lakh cases being disposed of. He acknowledged the persistent challenge of case pendency, noting that when he took office in January 2020, the Supreme Court had 79,500 pending cases, including unregistered or defective cases. By January 2022, this number had risen to 93,000, but by January 2024, it had reduced to 82,000 cases.
While the number of pending cases remained significant, CJI Chandrachud pointed out that the reduction of over 11,000 cases in just two years was an important milestone. This improvement is a testament to the reforms and innovations he introduced, such as the increased use of technology and the emphasis on efficiency in judicial proceedings.
Amidst his reflections on his career, CJI Chandrachud also shared a deeply personal story about his father, the former Chief Justice YV Chandrachud. He recalled how his father had purchased a small flat in Pune, despite not intending to ever live there. CJI Chandrachud was puzzled by the decision, questioning his father’s reasoning behind it. His father’s response, however, left a lasting impression on him.
“He said, ‘I know I’m never going to stay there. I’m not sure how long I will be with you, but do one thing, keep this flat until the last day of your tenure as a judge.’ I said, ‘Why is that?’” CJI Chandrachud recounted. His father’s advice was grounded in the values of moral and intellectual integrity. He urged his son to never allow himself to be compromised as a lawyer or a judge. “If you feel that your moral integrity or your intellectual integrity is ever compromised, I want you to know that you have a roof over your head,” his father had told him.
This piece of advice shaped CJI Chandrachud’s professional life, helping him navigate the pressures and challenges that came with his role. His father’s wisdom served as a constant reminder to remain true to one’s principles, no matter the external pressures. This story also highlighted the personal sacrifices that come with being a member of the judiciary, as well as the emotional support that family can provide during trying times.
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As CJI Chandrachud prepares to retire, he passed the torch to Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who will assume the role of Chief Justice on November 11. In his farewell speech, CJI Chandrachud praised his successor’s capabilities, recognizing Justice Khanna as a stable and responsible leader who would continue the work of strengthening India’s judicial system. “There is not going to be any difference when I leave this court because a person as stable as Justice Khanna will take over,” he assured the gathering.
Justice Khanna’s appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Supreme Court, but the legacy of CJI Chandrachud will likely endure for years to come. His contributions to the judicial system, his efforts to reduce the case backlog, and his focus on transparency and accountability have set new standards for India’s judiciary.
CJI Chandrachud’s tenure will be remembered not only for his legal acumen but also for his ability to connect with people on a personal level. His humility, humor, and commitment to justice have left an indelible mark on the Supreme Court and on the legal community at large. As he steps down, the country will continue to benefit from the judicial reforms and decisions he championed, ensuring that his influence on the Indian legal system endures long after his retirement.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s appointment as the new CJI brings with it the promise of continuity, as he is expected to carry forward the vision of a fair, efficient, and transparent judiciary. CJI Chandrachud’s farewell marks not just the end of an era but also the continuation of a strong judicial legacy in India.
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