In an emotional farewell, Supreme Court lawyers and dignitaries gathered on the ceremonial bench to bid farewell to Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud on his final day in office. The ceremony featured CJI Chandrachud alongside his successor, CJI Designate Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra.
The gathering was rich with reflections, memories, and tributes. Attorney General R Venkataramani, recalling a lighthearted moment from a conference in Brazil, jested, “What if I ask everyone here to dance on your retirement? I’m sure most will vote in favor!” This playful remark captured the warmth and respect felt by the legal fraternity toward the outgoing CJI.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta praised the impartiality of CJI Chandrachud, 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 reflected on the legacy of Chandrachud, both as a jurist and a person, saying, “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. Your father faced tumultuous times, and you took the helm in challenging periods. There will be none like you on that chair again.”
Senior Advocate Dr. AM Singhvi celebrated Chandrachud’s efforts to modernize the judiciary, crediting him with enhancing technology use in the court. “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!”
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi fondly recalled meeting CJI Chandrachud in his early days, and expressed hopes for continued camaraderie, while welcoming Justice Khanna as the new CJI. Advocates also highlighted Chandrachud’s calm, composed nature, as described by ASG N Venkataraman, who emphasized the “5Cs” that characterized his demeanor: “Calm, cool, composed, neither critical nor condemning.”
Nani Palkiwala Law Club members extended their best wishes for CJI Chandrachud’s potential term at the International Court of Justice, to which the CJI reacted with surprise.
Senior Advocate Shikhil Suri presented a heartfelt gift: a painting of CJI Chandrachud, crafted by his son. Meanwhile, Senior Advocate Rajiv Shakdher acknowledged the burdens and sacrifices of a judge, praising CJI Chandrachud for turning a “24-hour day into a 48-hour one” in his tireless dedication.
As the farewell drew to a close, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the incoming CJI, expressed gratitude for the revolutionizing legacy left behind by Chandrachud, making his own path both easier and challenging. He shared a humorous incident from Australia where people curiously asked about CJI Chandrachud’s youthful appearance.
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 smile and a nod to the audience, CJI DY Chandrachud concluded his final working day. His legacy and commitment will resonate long after his departure.
