On his final day as Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud delivered a poignant farewell message from the ceremonial bench, acknowledging that his tenure was coming to an end after two years at the helm. "I won't be able to deliver justice from tomorrow, but I am content," he said, reflecting on his time as the country's top judge.

Justice Chandrachud, who assumed office on November 9, 2022, recounted a lighthearted moment from the previous evening, recalling his conversation with his judicial registrar about the timing of his farewell ceremony. "I thought 2 pm would allow us to clear pending cases, but I wondered if anyone would actually be here on a Friday afternoon," he joked. Despite the lightheartedness, his farewell was marked by solemnity, as he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the weight of his judicial duties.

He likened the role of judges to that of pilgrims, committed to serving the cause of justice, and paid tribute to the great judges who had preceded him. Justice Chandrachud also praised his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, for his leadership qualities and competence, assuring the bar that the judiciary would remain in capable hands.

The outgoing Chief Justice also issued a heartfelt apology for any past mistakes, quoting the Jain phrase "Michhami Dukkadam," asking for forgiveness for any wrongs committed during his tenure.

Justice Chandrachud’s legacy includes landmark rulings on significant issues, including upholding the revocation of Article 370, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, and ordering the dismantling of the controversial electoral bonds scheme. His leadership also saw reforms aimed at inclusivity, such as the establishment of Mitti Café for individuals with disabilities and initiatives supporting women lawyers.

Lawyers and colleagues described him as a "rock star" of the judiciary, honoring his legacy of judicial integrity and progress.

On his final day as Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud delivered a poignant farewell message from the ceremonial bench, acknowledging that his tenure was coming to an end after two years at the helm. "I won't be able to deliver justice from tomorrow, but I am content," he said, reflecting on his time as the country's top judge.

Justice Chandrachud, who assumed office on November 9, 2022, recounted a lighthearted moment from the previous evening, recalling his conversation with his judicial registrar about the timing of his farewell ceremony. "I thought 2 pm would allow us to clear pending cases, but I wondered if anyone would actually be here on a Friday afternoon," he joked. Despite the lightheartedness, his farewell was marked by solemnity, as he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the weight of his judicial duties.

He likened the role of judges to that of pilgrims, committed to serving the cause of justice, and paid tribute to the great judges who had preceded him. Justice Chandrachud also praised his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, for his leadership qualities and competence, assuring the bar that the judiciary would remain in capable hands.

The outgoing Chief Justice also issued a heartfelt apology for any past mistakes, quoting the Jain phrase "Michhami Dukkadam," asking for forgiveness for any wrongs committed during his tenure.

Justice Chandrachud’s legacy includes landmark rulings on significant issues, including upholding the revocation of Article 370, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, and ordering the dismantling of the controversial electoral bonds scheme. His leadership also saw reforms aimed at inclusivity, such as the establishment of Mitti Café for individuals with disabilities and initiatives supporting women lawyers.

Lawyers and colleagues described him as a "rock star" of the judiciary, honoring his legacy of judicial integrity and progress.