On his last day at the Supreme Court, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud received warm tributes from colleagues and legal dignitaries. Attorney General Venkataramani shared humorous memories, while Solicitor General Mehta praised his impartiality. Advocates lauded his legacy, technological advancements, and calm demeanor. CJI Chandrachud emphasized the importance of their work and sought forgiveness for any unintentional hurt, leaving a profound judicial legacy.
New Delhi: In an emotional farewell gathering at the Supreme Court, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud was honored by colleagues, dignitaries, and legal stalwarts on his final working day. The ceremonial bench was filled with heartfelt reflections as CJI Chandrachud sat alongside his successor, CJI Designate Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra.
The farewell event was charged with nostalgia and admiration. Attorney General R Venkataramani lightened the atmosphere with a humorous recollection from a conference in Brazil, quipping, “What if I ask everyone here to dance on your retirement? I’m sure most will vote in favor!” This playful jest illustrated the warmth and respect the legal fraternity holds for the outgoing CJI.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta praised CJI Chandrachud’s impartiality, stating,
“We were never hesitant to present good or bad matters before you. For the government, we won some and lost many, but we always had an opportunity to put forward our point. My lord has always taken a stand as the ‘karta’ of the family. DYC will truly be missed.”
Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal lauded CJI Chandrachud’s profound impact, reflecting on his legacy and values.
“You are an extraordinary son of an extraordinary father. Your ever-smiling presence shall be etched in memory. As a judge, your conduct has been exemplary, and the way you reached out to communities reflected dignity in every sense. There will be none like you on that chair again.”
Dr. AM Singhvi, Senior Advocate, credited CJI Chandrachud with introducing significant technological advancements to the judiciary, saying,
“Your energy only increased over the last 42 years. You have listened to us patiently and beyond time. You modernized the court like no other, introducing iPads and holding numerous Constitution benches. You must share with us the secret of your youth!”
In a fond recollection, Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi recalled meeting CJI Chandrachud in his early days and looked forward to continued camaraderie. Advocates expressed admiration for his calm, composed nature, as ASG N Venkataraman highlighted his “5Cs”: “Calm, cool, composed, neither critical nor condemning.”
In a surprise gesture, the Nani Palkiwala Law Club extended their best wishes for a potential future term for CJI Chandrachud at the International Court of Justice, which left the CJI visibly moved. Additionally, Senior Advocate Shikhil Suri presented a painting of CJI Chandrachud, created by his son, adding a personal touch to the farewell.
Incoming Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna expressed deep gratitude for CJI Chandrachud’s revolutionary impact on the judiciary, saying his legacy makes the road both “easier and more challenging.” Justice Khanna shared a lighthearted moment from Australia where people were intrigued by CJI Chandrachud’s youthful demeanor.
In his final words, CJI Chandrachud reflected on his journey, saying,
“We are here as pilgrims of work. The work we do can make or break cases. Great judges have adorned this court and passed on the baton. Justice Khanna is a dignified and stable person who will take this court forward. If I have ever hurt anyone, I ask for forgiveness, as it was never my intention.”
With a nod and a smile, CJI DY Chandrachud concluded his last day, leaving behind a lasting legacy of dedication, empathy, and judicial reforms that will resonate in the Supreme Court for years to come.
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