DY Chandrachud's Landmark Verdicts: Celebrating a Distinguished Career as India's Chief Justice Retires
Introduction:
Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud, the 48th Chief Justice of India, retired on November 8, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of transformative legal precedents and impactful judgments. Throughout his tenure, Justice Chandrachud consistently upheld constitutional values, protected fundamental rights, and advocated for social justice.
Landmark Verdicts:
Decriminalization of Homosexuality:
In 2018, Justice Chandrachud authored the landmark verdict decriminalizing homosexuality in India. He ruled that Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized same-sex relationships, violated the fundamental rights of privacy, equality, and non-discrimination.
Right to Privacy:
Justice Chandrachud played a pivotal role in upholding the right to privacy as a fundamental right in India. In the 2017 Puttaswamy vs. Union of India case, he declared that privacy is an intrinsic aspect of life and liberty, and the state cannot infringe upon it without a compelling reason.
Aadhaar Framework:
Justice Chandrachud was instrumental in shaping the legal framework for India's Aadhaar biometric identification system. In the 2019 Aadhaar case, he ruled that while Aadhaar is constitutional, its use must be subject to strict safeguards to protect individuals' privacy.
Women's Rights:
Justice Chandrachud has consistently championed women's rights. He was part of the bench that decriminalized abortion in certain cases and upheld the right of women to reproductive autonomy.
Judicial Independence:
Justice Chandrachud has been a staunch defender of judicial independence and the rule of law. He has emphasized the need for an impartial judiciary to safeguard the rights of individuals and uphold the principles of democracy.
A Legacy of Justice:
Justice Chandrachud's retirement marks the end of an illustrious career marked by his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights. His landmark verdicts have significantly shaped the legal landscape of India and will continue to inspire future generations of jurists.
