November 8, 2024: In a heartfelt address from the ceremonial bench on his final day as Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud reflected on his two-year tenure and expressed contentment as he prepared to step down from the highest judicial office in the country. "I won’t be able to deliver justice from tomorrow, but I am content," he said, acknowledging that his tenure had come to a close.

Having assumed office on November 9, 2022, Justice Chandrachud's leadership of the Supreme Court was marked by his commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and reform. On his last day in office, he shared a light-hearted moment with the court's registrar judicial, recounting a conversation about the timing of his farewell ceremony. "When my registrar judicial 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?" he quipped, drawing laughter from those present.

In his parting remarks, Justice Chandrachud also took a moment to reflect on the solemn responsibility of the judiciary. He likened judges to pilgrims who arrive each day at court with a deep commitment to serve. "The work we do can make or break cases," he said, underscoring the significance of judicial decisions in shaping society.

Justice Chandrachud paid tribute to the legacy of his predecessors, acknowledging the "great judges who have adorned this court and passed on the baton." He expressed his confidence in the future of the institution, stating that he was reassured to leave the bench in the capable hands of Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who will succeed him as Chief Justice of India. "Justice Khanna is an able leader," he remarked, offering a vote of confidence in his successor.

As part of his farewell address, Justice Chandrachud also made a poignant apology, quoting the Jain phrase "Michhami Dukkadam", meaning "May all my misdeeds be forgiven." He asked for forgiveness for any inadvertent mistakes or actions that may have hurt anyone during his tenure.

The farewell ceremony saw a gathering of lawyers and members of the bar, who hailed Justice Chandrachud as a "rock star" of the judiciary for his groundbreaking work and leadership.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who has been nominated to succeed Justice Chandrachud, paid a warm tribute to the outgoing Chief Justice, emphasizing his significant contributions to marginalized communities and his tireless efforts to ensure justice for the needy. "I never had the chance to appear in Justice Chandrachud's court, but what he has done for the marginalized and the needy is beyond compare," Justice Khanna said.

He also shared a personal anecdote, noting Justice Chandrachud's love for samosas, which were a staple at nearly every meeting, although the Chief Justice himself never partook in the popular snack.

During his tenure, Justice Chandrachud was instrumental in pushing forward several initiatives aimed at improving the functioning of the Supreme Court. His leadership saw the establishment of Mitti Cafe, a social enterprise that empowers individuals with disabilities, as well as the creation of a dedicated bar room for women lawyers. He also championed beautification projects that transformed the Supreme Court's premises, making them more accessible and inclusive.

As Justice Chandrachud bids farewell to the Supreme Court, his legacy of reform, compassion, and commitment to justice will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on India's judiciary for years to come. Justice Sanjiv Khanna will be sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11, 2024, marking a new chapter in the country's judicial history.