'Could I Have Done Things Differently?' CJI Chandrachud Shares Retirement Anxieties

The CJI said as he is set to retire in November 2024, he finds himself pondering over questions such as: Did I achieve everything I set out to do? How will history judge my tenure?

The CJI was speaking at convocation of JSW Law School in Bhutan's Paro.

Source : PTI

The Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud on Tuesday said his mind has been heavily preoccupied with fears and anxieties about the future and the past as his retirement date nears. The CJI was speaking at convocation of JSW Law School in Bhutan's Paro.

The CJI said he is set to retire in November 2024, after serving the country for two years, he finds himself pondering over questions such as: Did I achieve everything I set out to do? How will history judge my tenure? Could I have done things differently? What legacy will I leave for future generations of judges and legal professionals?

CJI Chandrachud is set to retire on November 11, 2024 after a tenure of two years at the helm. Justice Sanjeev Khanna will take over as the next Chief Justice of India after his retirement.

"Pardon me for being a little vulnerable. I will be demitting office as the Chief Justice of India in November this year, after having served my country for two years. As my tenure is coming to an end, my mind has been heavily preoccupied with fears and anxieties about the future and the past. I find myself pondering over questions such as: Did I achieve everything I set out to do? How will history judge my tenure? Could I have done things differently? What legacy will I leave for future generations of judges and legal professionals?" CJI Chandrachud said.

He added that the answers to most of these questions lie beyond my control and perhaps, I will never find answers to some of these questions.

"However, I do know that, over the last two years, I have woken up every morning with a commitment to give the job my fullest and gone to bed with the satisfaction that I served my country with utmost dedication. It is in this, that I seek solace. Once you have this sense of faith in your intentions and abilities, it is easier to not get obsessed with the outcomes. You begin to value the process and the journey towards these outcomes." 

While speaking at the students at the convocation, the CJI said that "as you navigate the complexities of your own journeys, do not be afraid to take a step back, reassess, and ask yourself: Am I running towards a destination, or am I running towards myself? The difference is subtle, yet profound.  After all, the world needs leaders who are driven by purpose and not just ambition."