In a poignant farewell address delivered from the ceremonial bench, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud marked the end of his tenure with a humble plea for forgiveness. Invoking the Jain phrase ‘Michhami Dukkadam,’ meaning ‘May all my misdeeds be forgiven,’ Justice Chandrachud expressed regret for any unintentional harm he may have caused during his time on the bench. He stated, “If I have ever hurt anyone in the court, please forgive me for that.”
Justice Chandrachud’s tenure, which commenced on November 9, 2022, was marked by a commitment to justice and a deep respect for the legacy of the Supreme Court. He acknowledged the reality of his departure, saying, “I won’t be able to deliver justice from tomorrow, but I am content.” His words conveyed a sense of fulfillment while also hinting at the weight of the responsibility he was relinquishing.
As he welcomed Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who will assume the role of the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11, Justice Chandrachud expressed confidence in his successor’s leadership. He praised Justice Khanna as a capable leader and lauded his ability to guide the Supreme Court into the future.
In a lighthearted moment, Justice Chandrachud shared an anecdote about a conversation with his registrar judicial. He recounted how he had initially scheduled the ceremonial handover for 2 pm, thinking it would allow for the completion of pending tasks. However, he mused about the likelihood of anyone being present on a Friday afternoon, questioning whether he would be left facing the screen alone. This humorous anecdote highlighted the human side of the Chief Justice, emphasizing his commitment to the institution while also acknowledging the realities of everyday life.
Justice Chandrachud also reflected on the profound impact of the court’s work, stating, “The work we do can make or break cases.” He likened the role of judges to that of pilgrims, each day arriving at the court with a dedication to serving justice. He paid tribute to the “great judges who have graced this court and passed on the baton,” emphasizing the continuity of the judicial system and the weight of its legacy.
The lawyers and members of the bar who gathered to honor the outgoing Chief Justice described him as a “rock star” of the judiciary. This testament to his popularity and respect within the legal community reflects the profound impact he has had on the Indian judicial system. As Justice Chandrachud steps down from his role as the Chief Justice, he leaves behind a legacy of integrity, dedication, and a deep commitment to upholding the principles of justice. His farewell message serves as a reminder of the human element within the legal profession and the importance of humility even in the face of immense power.
