Kapil Sibal praised outgoing Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, saying that his behavior as a judge was outstanding and unmatched, during a speech before the ceremonial bench.
On the last day of Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud in Court, many members of the bar gathered, including Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal. Sibal expressed, “You are an exceptional son of an exceptional father. I have practiced here for 52 years, and I have never encountered a judge with your endless patience. The ever-smiling Dr. Chandrachud. That smile will remain in our hearts for many years.” He added, “As a person and a judge, your behavior was unmatched. Your outreach to communities that were previously unheard and unseen has shown them dignity. This is your greatest gift to the profession.”
Sibal emphasized the strong emotional bond between the Bar and the Judges, stating that this connection can never be broken. “We are united by the values we uphold, the values of our Constitution,” he noted. “In every area of law you have influenced, you have made a lasting impact that will be remembered. Whether it’s about liberty, fraternity, or the lives of ordinary and marginalized people… Your greatest legacy to this Court is that no one will match your presence in that chair for many years,” Sibal remarked. Senior Advocate Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi commended the energy the CJI brings, saying, “I have been in this Bar for 42 years, and your energy seems to have grown over these years.”
Attorney General of India (AGI) R. Venkataramani wrote a touching note for the CJI. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta spoke about the CJI’s legacy, highlighting his “unmatched scholarship” and impartiality, stating that “DYC will truly be missed.”
Former Delhi High Court Judge Rajiv Shakdher, now a Senior Advocate, made his first appearance before the Supreme Court today and spoke on behalf of the Chief Justice. He remarked, “It’s ironic, Chief Justice; today is my first time here. Sadly, it will be your last working day. We have interacted only on administrative matters, and I have never seen a judge delegate tasks to junior judges and High Court judges like you have.”
Others, including Senior Advocates Mukul Rohatgi, Pradeep Rai, Shadan Farast, and ASG Aishwarya Bhati, also shared their thoughts at the event. As Chief Justice Chandrachud’s two-year term came to an end, he expressed gratitude and fulfillment, acknowledging the change in his role. “From tomorrow, I won’t be able to deliver justice, but I am at peace,” he stated. Since taking office on November 9, 2022, he reflected on personal moments, including a light-hearted exchange with his judicial registrar the night before. When discussing the ceremony’s timing, he humorously wondered if the courtroom would still be busy at 2 pm or if he would be alone.
He compared judges to pilgrims, dedicated to their quest for justice. He honored the “great judges” who influenced the court’s legacy and expressed trust in his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, calling him “an able leader.” With humility, he added, “If I have ever caused harm in court, please forgive me,” using the Jain phrase “Michhami Dukkadam” to seek forgiveness for past wrongs. “This court is what motivates me,” he concluded, thanking everyone for their support. Justice Sanjiv Khanna, set to be sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11, praised Chief Justice Chandrachud for his dedication to marginalized communities, noting that his efforts were “beyond compare.”
