'Forgive me if I hurt anyone...’ Justice Chandrachud’s farewell speech evokes deep emotion

PTC Web Desk: On Friday, November 8, Justice DY Chandrachud marked his final day as the Chief Justice of India, reflecting on his career with gratitude and sincerity. During an emotional farewell session in a courtroom filled with members of the judiciary, he expressed appreciation for his experiences and the lessons learned. He also conveyed a heartfelt request for forgiveness from anyone he may have unintentionally wronged.

Justice DY Chandrachud recounted with a smile, "Last evening, my registrar judicial asked me about the timing for the ceremonial farewell. I suggested 2 pm, hoping it would be a convenient time to conclude the day's cases. I wondered, will anyone actually be present, or will I be speaking to an empty court and my own reflection on the screen?"

Justice Chandrachud highlighted the rich traditions of the judiciary, sharing that as a young lawyer, he watched seasoned advocates, absorbing their techniques and courtroom dynamics. "We are here as pilgrims dedicated to our work, which holds the power to make or break cases. Many great judges have graced this court, passing on their wisdom and responsibilities," he said. Justice DY Chandrachud expressed his confidence in the institution's future under the leadership of his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, whom he described as stable and dignified.

Reflecting on what sustained him throughout his tenure, Justice Chandrachud said, "If you ask what kept me going, it was the journey itself. The essence of being a judge and the lessons learned from each of you. Today, even in the 45 cases I presided over, there were new learnings. I am grateful to each one of you."

In a moving moment, Justice Chandrachud extended an apology for any unintended harm, stating, "If I have ever caused any hurt, please forgive me. It was never my intention." His remarks were met with visible emotion among those present.

The session was marked by tributes from senior members of the bar and bench. Justice Chandrachud sat alongside Justices Sanjiv Khanna, JB Pardiwala, and Manoj Misra on the ceremonial bench. The proceedings were filled with admiration for his legal insights and compassionate leadership.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta reflected on Justice Chandrachud’s impartial approach, acknowledging, “In cases involving the government, we sometimes won and often lost, but we always felt we were given a fair chance to present our case.” Mehta described him as "the karta of the family," a term that captures the essence of his leadership and dedication, adding, “Your presence will be sorely missed.”

Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal delivered an emotional tribute, noting, “You are an extraordinary son of an extraordinary father. Your ever-smiling face will be remembered.” Sibal praised Justice Chandrachud’s efforts to reach out to marginalised groups and uphold their dignity.

The farewell included touching recollections from his peers. Justice Hrishikesh Roy, who had been a classmate, reminisced about their early years in the judiciary, sharing, “Four of us started this journey together.” Justice PS Narasimha spoke of his unique perspective, having appeared before Justice Chandrachud as a lawyer and later serving alongside him as a judge, calling it an "extraordinary" experience.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna, set to succeed Justice Chandrachud, reflected on the path ahead as both “easy and tough.” He elaborated, “Easy because of the advancements made, tough because of the void he leaves behind; his presence will be deeply missed.” In a lighter moment, he remarked on Justice Chandrachud's youthful spirit, noting, “Even abroad, in Australia, people would ask me his age.”

Justice Chandrachud’s tenure, which began on November 8, 2022, ended with an atmosphere filled with respect and admiration.