Not Law, But This Subject Was First Choice For Ex-CJI DY Chandrachud

Former Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud initially aspired to choose a different field of study but went on with law due to circumstances.

Justice DY Chandrachud retired as 50th Chief Justice of India on November 10, 2024.

Source : PTI

Law was not the first choice for former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud as a field of study, revealed the ex-CJI, adding he had the support of his father in whatever he wanted to do. 

Chandrachud graduated in Economics and Mathematics and his first choice was to pursue a Post-Graduation in Economics, he said during an interview with NDTV. 

However, he ended up joining the law faculty at Delhi University and after that, there was no looking back, he added. 

"Law was not my first choice, to be very honest. I graduated from St Stephen's College in Economics and Mathematics. And, after I completed my BA, my first choice was actually to pursue a Post-Graduation in Economics at the Delhi School of Economics," the former CJI said. 

"But, as destiny would have it, I joined the law faculty and then there was no going back," he added. 

Remembering his father YV Chandrachud who had been the longest-serving Chief Justice of India, Justice Chandrchud said he never imposed his view on them and left it up to him to choose his career path. 

He also mentioned that in later years, his father was more of a friend to him, and that friendship continued till the end. 

He recalled the time when he was asked to become a judge at 38 but the appointment did not come for two years. "I thought, well, it's time to get on with the law and be a lawyer for the rest of my life. And when I looked at him (my father) for advice, he said, do as you please, and I'll support you in whatever you do," he said. 

"Perhaps, he said, you will do equally satisfying work and fulfilling law work as a lawyer at the bar," he added.

Justice Chandrachud retired as the 50th Chief Justice of India on November 10 last year. His tenure marked several landmark judgements, including on electoral bonds, the validity of Article 370 and same-sex marriage.