In a heartfelt farewell address delivered on his last official working day as Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud shared a poignant message about the importance of integrity and personal space, drawing upon a profound lesson from his father.
The outgoing CJI, who is set to retire on November 10th, recounted a touching anecdote from his earlier life. He revealed that his father had purchased a small apartment in Pune, despite knowing he would never actually live there. When asked why, his father had simply said, “I know I’m never going to stay there. He said I’m not sure how long I will be with you.” This seemingly simple act, Chandrachud explained, held a deeper meaning. His father’s purchase of the apartment was symbolic of his commitment to ensuring his son would always have a place of his own, a safe haven to retreat to in moments of vulnerability.
The CJI went on to explain that his father had instructed him to keep the apartment until the end of his tenure as a judge, adding a crucial directive: “If you feel that your moral integrity or your intellectual integrity is ever compromised, I want you to know that you have a roof over your head.” This powerful message served as a constant reminder to Chandrachud to never allow himself to be swayed from his principles, to always have a space to retreat to and maintain his personal integrity.
Reflecting on the challenges of being a public figure in the digital age, Chandrachud acknowledged the vulnerability of personal lives in the face of public scrutiny. He stated that while he had chosen to expose his own personal life to the public, he understood the inevitable criticism that came with it, especially in the age of social media. He acknowledged that “sunlight is the best disinfectant” and embraced the scrutiny as a necessary part of his public service.
The outgoing CJI’s farewell address was met with praise from Supreme Court Bar Association President Kapil Sibal, who hailed Chandrachud’s willingness to tackle complex issues that past chief justices had shied away from, such as Article 370, same-sex marriage, and electoral bonds. Sibal emphasized that while opinions may differ, Chandrachud’s willingness to address these complexities should be recognized and commended.
Chief Justice Chandrachud’s farewell message serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of personal integrity, especially in the public sphere. His poignant message underscores the need to maintain a sense of personal space and to never compromise one’s values, even in the face of challenges. His legacy will undoubtedly be marked by his courage in confronting complex issues and his unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of justice.
