Former CJI DY Chandrachud broke silence on the official home controversy, saying, “Everyone has the right to express what they think.” He explained the delay, citing his specially-abled daughters’ health and elderly parents.
Former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjay Yashwant Chandrachud has finally spoken about the controversy regarding the delay in vacating his official residence after retirement and the indirect remarks made by current CJI BR Gavai.
Justice Chandrachud, speaking to the Lallantop channel, dismissed the matter, stating that everyone has the freedom to express their thoughts.
The issue started when CJI Gavai, during the farewell ceremony of Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, said,
“See, some people vacate the next day.”
This was seen as a subtle dig at Justice Chandrachud.
CJI Gavai further made it clear that he would not face such a situation, saying he would vacate his government residence on time.
He stated, “for sure vacate” his official residence following his retirement this November, within the stipulated time as per the rules.
When Justice Chandrachud was asked directly if the remark was aimed at him, he responded calmly, saying,
“Look, I wouldn’t like to comment on anyone. You mentioned that maybe the Chief Justice of India said something at Justice Dhulia’s farewell. That is his opinion. I may or may not agree with it. But I respect every organ of our institution. Everyone has the right to express what they think.”
The matter had taken an unusual turn earlier in July, when the Supreme Court administration wrote to the Central Government, pointing out that the time given to Justice Chandrachud to vacate his official residence had already expired.
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Justice Chandrachud finally moved out of his official bungalow at Krishna Menon Marg, Delhi, in August.
Speaking about the importance of institutional respect, he added,
“I once held the same position that CJI Gavai currently holds. In any institution, we must respect our colleagues (former judges); only then can the institution sustain. Regarding what you said about CJI Gavai’s comment, I have nothing further to add because it wouldn’t be right — for me or for the institution.”
Justice Chandrachud also explained the personal reasons that delayed his shifting. He revealed the struggles faced by his family, particularly the health issues of his daughters.
He said,
“I tried my best to find a house. Now I want to tell you the reality of being a parent. People think that if you have been Chief Justice of India, you are at such a high position. But we have two daughters who are specially-abled. Their condition is called nemaline myopathy. There is no cure in the world today, though research is ongoing.”
Sharing further, he explained the difficulties of finding a suitable home, adding that both he and his wife Kalpana visited many properties before requesting more time.
Justice Chandrachud said,
“We inspected around 60–70 houses but could not find one suitable for our children. I also have elderly parents whose health is fragile.”
He added that because of these difficulties, he sought permission to continue in the government residence for a little longer. Justice Chandrachud clarified that he did not misuse his position, saying he stayed only after taking official permission and paid for the extended stay.
He said,
“Therefore, I requested permission to stay in the government residence for an additional two months, adding that I did not stay there free of charge during this period.”
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