“DYC will truly be missed.” – Tushar Mehta, S.G.

On the eve of a legacy’s conclusion, the Supreme Court of India witnessed a rare moment of reverence and reflection as Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud took his seat for the final time. As the ceremonial bench filled with colleagues and well-wishers, tributes poured in, each adding a layer to the extraordinary story of a judge who transformed lives, upheld values, and redefined justice.

Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal’s words captured the emotion of the moment, speaking both to the man and his mission: “You are an extraordinary son of an extraordinary father. I have practised in this court for 52 years now. In my life, I have never seen a judge with the limitless patience that you have.” Mr. Sibal’s heartfelt tribute accentuated a striking truth about Justice Chandrachud: “As a Judge, your conduct was exemplary, no one can match it.” His praise went further, highlighting the CJI's empathetic outreach to marginalised communities, bringing their voices to the forefront and restoring their dignity. “That,” Mr. Sibal said, “is your greatest contribution to the profession.

Reflecting on the bond shared between the judiciary and the bar, Mr. Sibal spoke of a connection that could not be broken: There is a deep emotional connection between the members of the Bar and the Judges, this marriage can never result in a divorce. “For the simple reason that both of us are wedded to the values that we espouse, the values of our Constitution.” For Justice Chandrachud, these values translated into a legacy that Mr. Sibal believes will endure. “Your greatest legacy to this Court is that there will be none like you that will adorn that chair for years to come.”

Senior Advocate Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi also paid tribute to the CJI’s boundless dedication: “I have been in this Bar for 42 years; it seems your energy has increased in these 42 years, from what I saw then.” Attorney General of India Mr. R. Venkataramani penned a heartfelt note, while Solicitor General Mr. Tushar Mehta admired Justice Chandrachud’s “unmatched scholarship” and impartiality, declaring, “DYC will truly be missed.”

In a touching twist, Senior Advocate Mr. Rajiv Shakdher, a former Delhi High Court judge making his first appearance before the Apex Court, shared his own connection: “It’s ironic, Chief Justice; it is my first appearance here today. Unfortunately, this will be your last working day...only on the administrative side, we have had interactions.” He lauded the CJI’s exceptional delegation of duties to junior judges, a rarity that, Mr. Shakdher noted, brought efficiency and inclusiveness to the judicial process.

The tributes continued from Senior Advocates Mr. Mukul Rohatgi, Mr. Pradeep Rai, Mr. Shadan Farasat, and Additional Solicitor General Ms. Aishwarya Bhati, each recognizing the profound mark Justice Chandrachud left across a spectrum of legal areas—from liberty to fraternity, from the defence of ordinary citizens to championing marginalised groups.

Chief Justice Chandrachud, who assumed office on November 9, 2022, shared a lighthearted moment from the previous evening. "When my judicial registrar asked me what time the ceremonial should begin, I said 2 pm, thinking it would allow us to wrap up a lot of pending items. But I wondered to myself—will anyone actually be here at 2 pm on a Friday afternoon? Or will I just be left looking at myself on the screen?” The CJI shared, drawing smiles from the audience.

In a moment of reflection, Justice Chandrachud expressed gratitude for his tenure with both humility and humour. His two-year term redefined judicial impact. “I won’t be able to deliver justice from tomorrow, but I am content,” he said, reflecting on his role with quiet satisfaction.

Justice Chandrachud likened the judiciary’s mission to a pilgrimage, one dedicated to upholding justice daily. He expressed admiration for the “great judges” who had shaped the institution’s history, acknowledging their profound influence on his own journey. He looked to his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, with confidence, calling him “an able leader” and entrusting him with the mantle of Chief Justice of India.

Closing his address with humility, Justice Chandrachud shared a final thought, requesting forgiveness for any unintentional hurt he may have caused. Quoting the Jain phrase "Michchhami Dukkadam," He sought forgiveness, embodying the grace and empathy that had defined his time on the bench. “It is this court that keeps me going,” he said, expressing deep gratitude for the camaraderie and support he had received throughout his tenure.

As Justice Sanjiv Khanna prepares to be sworn in on November 11, 2024 as the 51st Chief Justice of India, he praised Justice Chandrachud’s remarkable legacy, honouring his unwavering commitment to marginalised communities. Justice Chandrachud’s work is “beyond compare.” Justice Khanna concluded

Justice Chandrachud’s departure marks the end of a transformative era for the Supreme Court—a legacy of justice and compassion that, as Mr. Sibal aptly said, “...will be etched in our hearts for years to come.”

Lawyers and members of the Bar gathered to honour the outgoing Chief Justice. Law club members added a unique note to the tributes, remarking with a smile, “We wish you all the best for your term at the International Court of Justice now.” The CJI laughed in response, saying, “What!” as the room shared in the moment.