Former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud has responded to the Supreme Court administration’s letter seeking vacating of his official residence, stating that his continued stay at the government-allotted bungalow was due to personal exigencies related to his family.
In his explanation, Chandrachud cited serious health concerns of his two daughters, stating, “My daughters have severe comorbidities and genetic problems – particularly nemaline myopathy, for which they are being treated by specialists at AIIMS.” He said the delay in vacating Bungalow No. 5 on Krishna Menon Marg, Lutyens’ Delhi, was because his family required suitable housing, adding, “This is a personal issue.”
He also mentioned that the matter has been discussed with sitting judges and officers of the Supreme Court and assured, “I am fully aware of my responsibilities, having occupied the highest judicial office,” and that he would be vacating the residence in the coming days.
The development follows a July 1 letter from the Supreme Court registry to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), seeking immediate vacation of the Type VIII government bungalow, which is officially designated for the incumbent Chief Justice.
Chandrachud retired from office on November 10, 2024, and his two successors—Justice Sanjiv Khanna and current CJI Bhushan R. Gavai—opted to continue residing in their previously allotted accommodations, leaving the official CJI residence still occupied.
According to the court’s letter, Justice Chandrachud had earlier written to then CJI Khanna on December 18, 2024, requesting an extension until April 30, 2025. He cited a delay in renovation work at his newly allotted bungalow at No. 14, Tughlak Road, caused by pollution-related restrictions under GRAP-IV in Delhi. The request was approved by Justice Khanna, and the ministry permitted the continued occupation at a licence fee of ₹5,430 per month.
Later, an oral extension was granted until May 31, 2025, with a clear condition that no further extensions would be allowed.
In his recent statement, Chandrachud added that “former CJIs in the past have been allowed extended time to retain government accommodation post-retirement, often to facilitate transition or address personal exigencies.”
The matter has stirred attention as the official accommodation continues to remain occupied nearly eight months after his demitting office, despite procedural norms requiring vacating within a specified period.
