Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud, the 50th Chief Justice of India, is known for his progressive judgements and unwavering commitment to upholding the Constitution. With a legacy inherited from his father, the longest-serving CJI, Justice Chandrachud has become one of the most influential and respected judges in the Supreme Court. Notably, his lead judgement in the historic right to privacy case and his stance against the criminalisation of same-sex relations under Section 377 have solidified his reputation as a champion of individual rights and liberties.
Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud: A Stalwart of Indian Judiciary
Background:
Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud, the current Chief Justice of India (CJI), is a renowned legal luminary whose legacy is deeply entwined with the Indian judiciary. Born in Mumbai in 1959, he is the son of the legendary former CJI, Y.V. Chandrachud, who served for a remarkable 7 years.
Journey to the Supreme Court:
Chandrachud began his legal career as an advocate in the Bombay High Court, where he made his mark with his meticulous research, persuasive arguments, and commitment to constitutional principles. He was elevated to the Supreme Court as a judge in 2016.
Chief Justiceship:
Chandrachud was appointed as the 50th CJI on November 9, 2022. His chief justiceship has been marked by his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, constitutional interpretation, and the protection of individual rights.
Progressive Judgments:
Justice Chandrachud has authored several progressive judgments that have shaped Indian jurisprudence. Notably, he penned the lead judgment in the landmark right to privacy case in 2017, establishing it as a fundamental right. He also played a pivotal role in the decriminalization of same-sex relations under Section 377 in 2018.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. What are some of Justice Chandrachud's key qualities as a judge? Answer: His sharp intellect, analytical prowess, and unflinching commitment to justice.
2. What is the significance of his lead judgment in the right to privacy case? Answer: It recognized privacy as an intrinsic aspect of personal liberty and set a precedent for the protection of digital rights.
3. How did Justice Chandrachud contribute to the decriminalization of same-sex relations? Answer: He was instrumental in drafting the dissenting judgment in Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India, which paved the way for the Supreme Court's historic ruling.
4. What is Justice Chandrachud known for outside the courtroom? Answer: His passion for classical music, writing, and his active engagement with legal academia.
5. What are the key challenges facing Justice Chandrachud as CJI? Answer: Maintaining the independence of the judiciary, tackling the pendency of cases, and upholding the rule of law in the face of societal challenges.
Conclusion:
Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud is a respected and influential Chief Justice of India, whose vision for a progressive and just society is evident in his path-breaking judgments. His legacy is likely to have a profound impact on the future of Indian law and jurisprudence for generations to come.
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