Chief Justice DY Chandrachud Reflects on Tenure and Future Challenges

As Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud prepares to retire, he expresses concerns about his achievements, legacy, and how history will judge his tenure. Speaking in Bhutan, he emphasized balancing traditional values with modern influences and urged lawyers to use the law as a tool for societal change, especially in environmental issues.

As Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud nears retirement next month, he candidly shared his introspections about his legacy and future challenges. Speaking at Bhutan's JSW School of Law convocation, Chandrachud reflected on his two-year tenure, acknowledging the unanswered questions about his accomplishments and historical judgment.

In his adresses, attended by Bhutanese dignitaries including Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck, Chandrachud highlighted the importance of maintaining traditional values amidst global influences. He argued that while Western concepts like 'human rights' are important, they should accommodate cultural nuances, urging nations to forge paths that support their unique identities.

Emphasizing the role of law and its broader societal implications, Chandrachud encouraged graduates to use their legal education as a means for social change, pointing to historical movements that harnessed the power of law. He praised JSW's upcoming programs in environmental law, identifying India's urgent need for ecologically aware legal professionals.

(With inputs from agencies.)