In a recent heartfelt address, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud reflected on the personal values that shaped his career and the impact of the judiciary on ordinary lives. Speaking at a gathering organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association to honor him before his retirement on November 10, CJI Chandrachud shared intimate stories from his upbringing and experiences on the bench.
Lessons in Integrity from a Father
Chief Justice Chandrachud fondly remembered his father, the late Y.V. Chandrachud, India's 16th Chief Justice. He recounted how his father bought a small flat in Pune with a purpose—security for times when moral integrity might be challenged. His father’s lesson was clear: integrity should never bow to fear or material concerns. This reminder of ethical steadfastness has stayed with him throughout his judicial career.
A Mother's Strength and Sacrifice
Reflecting on his childhood, CJI Chandrachud spoke of his mother's nurturing presence, recalling how she spent sleepless nights caring for him when he was ill. Her devotion, paired with a constant recitation of a comforting shloka, became a foundation of resilience for him. With a touch of humor, he noted the strong influence women have had in his life, stating that while his mother ruled their home, she never interfered with his judgments.
Judicial Stories of Compassion and Change
In his address, Justice Chandrachud shared stories that highlighted the judiciary's power to transform lives. He spoke about enabling visually challenged candidates to sit for judicial exams and assisting a doctor with muscular dystrophy to pursue his dreams. In another instance, the court intervened when a talented student's financial constraints nearly blocked his admission to IIT. These cases, he emphasized, are the true essence of justice—bringing hope to the common man.
Bridging the Divide in the Judiciary
CJI Chandrachud also addressed a topic close to his heart—the importance of diversity within the judiciary. He acknowledged the often-overlooked value of service judges, whose experience enriches the legal system. Their understanding of ground-level judicial processes, he argued, adds depth to the bench's collective wisdom.
A Life Guided by Principles
Through stories of his father’s foresight, his mother’s devotion, and his own journey in law, Chief Justice Chandrachud offered a glimpse into the values that guide his life and work. His father's insistence that he study Hindi—a decision that seemed unusual at the time—broadened his perspective and understanding of diverse viewpoints.
As he prepares to step down from the bench, CJI Chandrachud’s reflections remind us that justice is not merely about rulings, but about the lives it touches. His career, deeply rooted in integrity, compassion, and service, stands as a testament to the transformative power of the judiciary, making him a beacon of hope for many.
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