Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, who has served as the Chief Justice of India since November 2022, is set to retire on 10 November 2024. As his tenure comes to a close, Chandrachud has been reflecting on how history will judge his time in office and the legacy he will leave behind for future generations. In a recent speech at the JSW Law School convocation in Bhutan, he expressed concerns about whether he achieved everything he set out to do and how his judgments will be remembered. Despite these uncertainties, Chandrachud finds solace in his dedication to his role, stating that he commits himself to the job daily.
Several landmark rulings, including decisions on electoral bonds, privacy rights, and gender equality, have marked his tenure. Chandrachud presided over cases that expanded civil liberties, such as reinforcing data protection under the right to privacy and playing a key role in decriminalizing adultery. He also spoke about the balance between traditional values and modern democratic ideals, urging students to examine their historical contexts critically. As he prepares to leave the judiciary, Chandrachud’s reflections highlight the complexities of justice and his deep commitment to upholding constitutional freedoms during a transformative time in India’s legal landscape.
