Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s tenure leaves a legacy marked by bold decisions, though not without controversies
As Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s tenure concludes on November 10, his impactful decisions will be closely scrutinised for the lasting mark they have left on India’s journey toward progress and development. He became the 50th CJI on November 8, 2022. During his tenure as a judge and as CJI, Chandrachud has been involved in more than 700 judgements including constitution bench judgements, many of which he has authored, dissented and concurred with. His tenure stands as one of the most impactful in recent years, marked by bold judicial reforms, significant rulings, and an enduring commitment to upholding constitutional rights. His time in office was characterised by an effort to reshape the judiciary to make it more accessible, transparent, and technologically adept. However, this legacy was not without its share of controversies, reflecting both the high expectations and challenges that come with the nation’s highest judicial role. His approach to jurisprudence was firmly rooted in constitutional principles and a progressive interpretation of the law.
His tenure is defined by landmark rulings that addressed some of India’s most pressing social and political issues. The free speech and right to dissent that are fundamental to any democracy were close to his heart. Under his leadership, the apex court repeatedly affirmed the rights of individuals to dissent and question authority, especially in cases where government overreach was alleged. His rulings in cases challenging sedition laws and other colonial-era restrictions reflected a judicial commitment to curbing censorship. Chandrachud introduced significant technological advancements within the judiciary to make it more accessible and efficient. His commitment to digitalisation and virtual court proceedings made it accessible to all. His efforts to streamline case backlogs, prioritise the rights of underprivileged communities and modernise the judicial system have left a lasting impact. He championed judicial independence and frequently emphasised the need for an apolitical judiciary. These reforms have set a foundation for future chief justices to build on. However, Chandrachud faced criticism over his handling of certain high-profile political cases, especially those involving state surveillance and alleged misuse of power. His reluctance to prioritise some of these cases was interpreted by some as an unwillingness to confront the government, casting a shadow on his otherwise steadfast stance on judicial independence. His attempts to bring transparency to the controversial collegium system were met with mixed reactions. Indeed, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s tenure will be remembered as one marked by significant contributions to the evolution of Indian jurisprudence and judicial processes. DY Chandrachud commitment to rights-based judgements, technological modernisation and accessibility reforms represents his enduring contributions to the judiciary.
