New Delhi, October 9: Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, during his address at the 3rd convocation ceremony of Bhutan's Jigme Singye Wangchuck (JSW) School of Law, reflected on the impending end of his tenure, which will conclude on November 10, 2024.
Speaking candidly, he admitted to being preoccupied with thoughts about how history would judge his time in office, questioning whether he had accomplished all he set out to achieve.
Despite these uncertainties, CJI Chandrachud expressed a sense of fulfillment, knowing he had always given his best and prioritized the journey over the outcome.
In his address, CJI Chandrachud emphasized the need to honor traditional values in India and Bhutan, particularly in the face of Western influences.
He challenged the assumption that Western principles, such as individual-centered human rights frameworks, are universally applicable, arguing that local, community-based systems of justice are vital.
He called for a balance between preserving cultural traditions and adopting modern democratic principles. CJI Chandrachud also stressed the importance of environmental stewardship, praising Bhutan's commitment to sustainability and its constitutional emphasis on ecological protection.
He concluded by encouraging young law graduates to use their legal education for positive social change, highlighting the transformative power of law in movements like the fight against apartheid and the civil rights movement.
