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Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, in his final address to lawyers on his last working day, highlighted the profound satisfaction of serving those in need. This heartfelt message, delivered in the Supreme Court's Court Hall 1, marked the end of his tenure, which officially concludes on November 10th. He reminisced about his early days as a young lawyer, observing the greats of the bar and absorbing their courtroom practices and legal expertise. As CJI, he acknowledged the weighty responsibility entrusted upon him, emphasizing the court's paramount role in upholding justice for all citizens.
Chandrachud underscored the transient nature of his position, comparing judges to "pilgrims" or "birds of passage." He stressed that the impact of their work outlasts their tenure, shaping the institution's legacy. He expressed a deep sense of contentment, assured that his departure would not leave a void due to the strength and dedication of his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna. He commended Justice Khanna's stability, commitment to justice, and understanding of the court's social, political, and historical context, highlighting the seamless transition that awaited the Supreme Court.
Chandrachud recalled his shared tenure with Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, emphasizing their collective pursuit of justice while acknowledging their individual strengths and unique perspectives. He emphasized the transformative impact of his journey through the court system, from junior courts to the Chief Justice's seat, enriching both his personal and professional life. The driving force behind his commitment, he revealed, stemmed from the court's constant learning opportunities and the fulfillment of serving society, even those unknown and unseen. He articulated the profound sense of satisfaction in impacting the lives of individuals in need, a sentiment he cherished deeply throughout his 24-year legal journey.
In his final remarks, Chandrachud expressed gratitude for the lessons learned from lawyers and colleagues alike. He recognized the insights gained not only about legal intricacies but also about life's complexities, highlighting the broader perspectives gained through case deliberations. This experience, he emphasized, provided a window into society's pulse, highlighting the court's crucial role in maintaining public trust and upholding the principles of justice. Justice Khanna, in his response, expressed admiration for Chandrachud's accomplishments, particularly his modernization efforts in infrastructure and technology. He also shared heartwarming anecdotes of letters and artwork received from children, underscoring the impact of Chandrachud's work beyond the court walls.