Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud: India's 50th Chief Justice

Early Life and Education

Born on November 11, 1959, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud is the son of former Chief Justice of India, Yeshwant Vishnu Chandrachud. He received his B.A. (Hons.) in Economics from St. Stephen's College, Delhi, and his LL.B. from the University of Delhi in 1982. Chandrachud further pursued an LL.M. in Comparative Constitutional Law from Harvard Law School in 1983.

Legal Career

Chandrachud began his legal career as an advocate at the Supreme Court of India in 1985. In 1998, he was appointed as Additional Solicitor General of India. He served as Solicitor General from 2002 to 2004, representing the Union of India in various important cases.

Appointment to the Supreme Court

In 2016, Chandrachud was elevated to the Supreme Court of India as a judge. He has since authored several landmark judgments, including the decriminalization of adultery, the right to privacy, and the legalization of same-sex relationships.

Chief Justice of India

On November 9, 2022, Chandrachud was appointed as the 50th Chief Justice of India. As the head of the Indian judiciary, he is responsible for upholding the Constitution and ensuring the independent functioning of the courts. Chandrachud is known for his progressive views on social issues and his commitment to judicial reforms.

Contributions to Indian Law

Chandrachud has made significant contributions to Indian law through his judgments and writings. He has emphasized the importance of the Constitution as a living document that must adapt to changing societal values. He has also been an advocate for the rights of marginalized communities and the protection of the environment.

Personal Life

Chandrachud is married to Pratibha Singh, a lawyer and the daughter of former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Virbhadra Singh. They have two daughters, Vaishnavi and Shailaja.

Legacy

Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud's tenure as Chief Justice of India is expected to be a transformative one for the Indian judiciary. His commitment to social justice, judicial reforms, and the rule of law is likely to have a lasting impact on the nation.