On his final working day as Chief Justice of India (CJI), Justice DY Chandrachud delivered an emotional farewell speech, throughout which he sought forgiveness for any hurt brought on all through his tenure.
The CJI expressed sought forgiveness, saying, “If I ever harm anybody within the court docket, I would really like you to only please forgive me.” The Chief Justice’s attraction for understanding was notably touching as he acknowledged the private nature of his work.
“It’s this court docket that retains me going… we meet folks we presumably do not know,” he added, emphasizing the deep emotional {and professional} affect of his position.
He thanked the court docket employees, legal professionals, and judges for his or her help and cooperation, highlighting the distinctive nature of every case that got here earlier than him throughout his tenure.
Through the farewell proceedings, CJI Chandrachud additionally shared his dedication to justice, noting that he had needed to listen to as many circumstances as potential earlier than his retirement. “When my court docket employees requested me yesterday as to what time the Ceremonial Bench shall be listed, I instructed I will do as many issues as I can…I would not wish to miss the chance to do justice until the final time potential,” he stated, underscoring his dedication to his judicial duties till the very finish.
His phrases mirrored the tireless work ethic that outlined his tenure as CJI, the place he constantly sought to steadiness the calls for of justice with the human components of the circumstances earlier than him.
The CJI additionally supplied poignant reflections on the transient nature of human existence. “We’re right here as pilgrims, birds for a brief passage of time, do our work, and depart,” he remarked. This philosophical statement emphasised the impermanence of life and the significance of benefiting from one’s time, notably in a high-pressure and high-responsibility position reminiscent of his.
Justice Chandrachud, who was appointed to the Supreme Court docket in 2016 and served as its 50th Chief Justice beginning in November 2022, expressed his gratitude for the chance to serve in such a big capability.
Reflecting on the day’s proceedings, the retiring Chief Justice admitted feeling humbled by the overwhelming presence of colleagues and employees who attended his farewell. “Final night time, I used to be questioning the court docket could be empty at 2 pm and I will be myself on the display screen,” he shared, expressing his shock and appreciation for the big turnout.
His remarks revealed a facet of the CJI that contrasted along with his formal judicial persona—a frontrunner who was deeply touched by the help and affection of these he labored alongside.
