As Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud wrapped up his tenure, he left behind a remarkable legacy with verdicts that have reshaped India’s legal landscape and influenced key areas such as privacy rights, federalism, and equality. During his farewell ceremony, organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association, CJI Chandrachud expressed his gratitude, reflecting on the values instilled by his mother. “The ‘dhan’ in Dhananjay was not material wealth,” he shared, “but knowledge, which I have strived to gather and share.” His time on the bench is marked by 613 judgments, with several landmark decisions redefining constitutional principles and enhancing accountability in Indian governance. Here are five critical verdicts delivered by him that will continue to impact the country:
1. Delhi Government’s Authority in Federal Structure (2018 & 2023)
- Case: NCT Government of Delhi v. Union of India
- CJI Chandrachud championed the principle of federalism in cases involving the governance of Delhi, ruling in favor of the National Capital Territory’s administrative authority. His judgments underscored the importance of cooperative federalism, affirming that while Delhi is a Union Territory, the elected government retains decision-making power in administrative matters. This decision solidified the role of regional governments within India’s federal structure, ensuring a balance between central and state powers.
2. Marriage Equality and Civil Union Rights for LGBTQ+ Community (2023)
- Case: Supriya Chakraborty v. Union of India
- While the court ultimately left the issue of marriage equality to Parliament, CJI Chandrachud’s judgment was significant in its support for LGBTQ+ civil unions. He emphasized the need to recognize the rights of individuals in same-sex relationships, framing the discourse around dignity and equality. The judgment marked a progressive stance in Indian jurisprudence, though it stopped short of providing full legal recognition for same-sex marriages.
3. Upholding the Abrogation of Article 370 (2023)
- Case: In Re: Article 370 of the Constitution
- CJI Chandrachud played a pivotal role in upholding the abrogation of Article 370, which revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. This decision was both historic and contentious, with the court affirming the Indian government’s authority to make constitutional changes in the region. CJI Chandrachud highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s unique position within the Indian Union while reinforcing the central government’s constitutional powers in managing this sensitive territory.
4. Striking Down the Electoral Bonds Scheme (2024)
- Case: Association for Democratic Reforms v. Union of India
- Ahead of the 2024 general elections, CJI Chandrachud declared the Electoral Bonds Scheme unconstitutional, emphasizing the right of voters to access financial information about political parties. This ruling was a groundbreaking move towards transparency, as it struck down a scheme criticized for enabling anonymous political donations. The decision affirmed the voters’ right to information, strengthening democratic accountability and integrity in electoral funding.
5. Allowing Sub-Classification in SC/ST Reservations (2024)
- Case: State of Punjab v. Davinder Singh
- In another landmark judgment, the court permitted the sub-classification within SC/ST reservations, allowing states to identify “backwardness within backwardness” based on empirical data. This decision, delivered in early 2024, opens the door for a more nuanced approach to affirmative action, allowing states to address inequities within marginalized groups. CJI Chandrachud’s ruling underscored the need for empirical evidence in policy decisions, aiming to improve access to resources for the most vulnerable.
