Farewell to CJI D.Y. Chandrachud: A Legacy of Inclusivity, Innovation, and Legal Excellence

Keywords: Farewell CJI Chandrachud, Chief Justice Chandrachud achievements, Sanjiv Khanna praises CJI Chandrachud, Supreme Court inclusivity, Justice D.Y. Chandrachud legacy;

The Supreme Court of India recently bid farewell to Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, a towering figure in Indian judiciary known for his transformative contributions. At a farewell event organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), CJI-designate Justice Sanjiv Khanna delivered an emotional tribute, highlighting Justice Chandrachud’s indelible impact on the institution. Justice Chandrachud’s tenure was marked by monumental judgments, groundbreaking reforms, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, setting a high standard for the apex court.

Justice Chandrachud’s “Monumental” Contributions

• Justice Khanna described Justice Chandrachud’s contributions as “monumental,” noting the 38 constitutional bench judgments he delivered—a record unlikely to be surpassed. His judgments bridged traditional legal principles with contemporary innovations, making him a scholar and jurist whose decisions resonate widely. Justice Khanna acknowledged the depth of Justice Chandrachud’s scholarship and the calm wisdom he brought to the court, both professionally and personally.

Advancing Inclusivity and Accessibility in the Apex Court

Justice Chandrachud pursued a mission to make the Supreme Court a “sanctuary of inclusivity,” ensuring it was accessible to all. He introduced reforms to make court spaces more welcoming, such as the establishment of Mitti Café, a space run entirely by differently-abled individuals, embodying his vision of inclusivity. Through these actions, Justice Chandrachud sought to make the apex court less daunting for marginalized groups, demonstrating a commitment to justice beyond the courtroom.

A Technology-Driven Transformation

Known for his affinity for technology, Justice Chandrachud modernized the Supreme Court by incorporating digital advancements, such as e-filing, live streaming, hybrid hearings, and AI translation tools. These initiatives democratized access to justice and significantly enhanced the efficiency of court processes, making them accessible to litigants and lawyers alike. His efforts brought the Supreme Court closer to the people, aligning it with the needs of a rapidly evolving society.

A Towering Leader and Tireless Orator

Justice Khanna praised Justice Chandrachud’s extraordinary oratory and writing skills, noting his ability to seamlessly integrate traditional wisdom with contemporary legal thought. Justice Chandrachud’s speeches, often delivered multiple times a day, showcased his intellectual versatility and dedication to fostering understanding in diverse legal areas. His self-discipline, relentless energy, and dedication to the judiciary were evident throughout his tenure, qualities that Justice Khanna said would leave a lasting impact on the institution.

Institutional Reforms and Infrastructure Development

Justice Chandrachud’s tenure was marked by significant institutional reforms, from constructing new chambers to establishing a dedicated war room for court management and implementing staff welfare initiatives. These developments aimed to strengthen the Supreme Court’s infrastructure, contributing to a more efficient and supportive environment for those who serve within it.

Conclusion

• As Justice Chandrachud steps down, his legacy remains a powerful influence on the Indian judiciary. His tenure as Chief Justice of India was defined by inclusivity, technological advancement, and compassionate leadership. Justice Khanna’s heartfelt words underscored the void that Justice Chandrachud’s departure will create, yet his influence will persist through the reforms and principles he championed.

Reflecting on his journey, Justice Khanna invoked a line from Frank Sinatra’s famous song, “I did it my way,” affirming that Justice Chandrachud indeed led the court on his terms—guided by a profound vision for a more accessible, inclusive, and future-ready judiciary.

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