‘My Shoulders Broad Enough To…’: Chandrachud To Critics At Farwell, Calls Himself ‘One Of Most Trolled Judges’

On his final day as Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud addressed criticism, stating his belief in transparency and accepting all scrutiny. He also expressed his faith in CJI-designate Sanjiv Khanna.

Outgoing Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, on his final working day in office, addressed criticism head-on, highlighting his belief in transparency and openness in public life. “My shoulders are broad enough to accept all criticism,” Justice Chandrachud said, referencing his stance that "sunlight is the best disinfectant."

Speaking at a farewell function organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), Justice Chandrachud, the 50th CJI, reflected on his tenure and the intense scrutiny he faced. “I am probably one of the most trolled individuals and judges across the system,” he remarked, adding with humour, “I’m just wondering what will happen from Monday because all those who trolled me will be unemployed”, news agency PTI reported. 

Justice Chandrachud, who took office on 9 November 2022, succeeded his father, YV Chandrachud, who remains the longest-serving Chief Justice of India (1978-1985). The outgoing CJI will officially superannuate on 10 November 2024. During his speech, he recounted how his decisions exposed his personal life to the public, inviting criticism. “I know in so many ways I’ve exposed my own personal life to public knowledge... But so be it,” he remarked.

Justice Chandrachud’s tenure witnessed controversies, notably inviting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Ganesh puja at his residence and his remarks about the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute. Acknowledging these episodes, he stated, “I’m sure all of you are aware of the amount of trolling that I have received.”

Supreme Court In 'Solid And Stable Hands': Chandrachud On CJI-Designate Sanjiv Khanna

Earlier in the day, Chandrachud, sitting alongside CJI-designate Sanjiv Khanna and two other judges on a ceremonial bench, shared a philosophical outlook: “We are here as pilgrims, birds for a short passage of time... The work we do can leave a mark in the institution. Great judges have come here in the past and passed on the baton... to sustain the institution.”

At the SCBA farewell event, Justice Chandrachud emphasised the honour of serving the public and said, “When our memories outweigh our dreams, then it means we have grown old. I hope I continue dreaming about the smaller things in life from now on.” He expressed his faith in Justice Khanna, stating, “I leave the institution of the Supreme Court in confidence... that this court is in solid and stable hands.”

Justice Chandrachud's tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including the disposal of 1.07 lakh cases out of 1.11 lakh filed since he assumed office. He also praised his colleague judges, specifically Justice Khanna, for their dedication and collaboration. He shared that the Supreme Court handled 5.33 lakh case listings and highlighted key initiatives, like digitisation, that transformed court functioning.

CJI-designate Sanjiv Khanna and other legal luminaries, including SCBA President Kapil Sibal, lauded Justice Chandrachud’s contributions. Justice Khanna observed that Justice Chandrachud worked tirelessly to make the court more inclusive and accessible, while Sibal credited him for transforming the judicial landscape.