Justice DY Chandrachud Reacts To NHRC Chairperson Role’ Rumours
Former Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud has dismissed reports suggesting he is being considered for the position of chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Addressing the rumours, Justice Chandrachud clarified that no one had approached him regarding the role, and he is thoroughly enjoying his retired life as a private citizen.
Justice Chandrachud’s denial of the rumour puts to rest speculation surrounding his possible appointment.
Speaking to NDTV, the former CJI said, “It is just a rumour. Nobody has spoken to me about this, and I am loving my life as a private citizen. I am enjoying my retired life.” Justice Chandrachud retired on November 10, 2024, after serving as the 50th Chief Justice of India.
The NHRC has been without a full-time chairperson since June 1, following the conclusion of former Supreme Court judge Justice Arun Kumar Mishra’s tenure. A high-level committee chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which includes Home Minister Amit Shah and opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, convened recently to deliberate on potential candidates for the position.
Justice Chandrachud’s tenure as Chief Justice is remembered for several landmark rulings, including the upholding of the abrogation of Article 370, which revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. He also led the bench that ordered the dismantling of the contentious electoral bonds scheme. He was part of major judgments in recent years of the court including Right to privacy, Decriminalizing homosexuality, Decriminalizing adultery, Sabarimala temple entry, Ayodhya land dispute, Same-sex marriage etc.
In addition to his judicial achievements, Justice Chandrachud has been praised for modernising the judiciary and addressing systemic issues. His progressive and inclusive approach often focused on gender justice and constitutional rights.
The NHRC, which is tasked with safeguarding human rights in India, requires its chairperson to be a former CJI or a retired Supreme Court judge. Currently, Vijaya Bharathi Sayani is serving as the commission’s acting chairperson.
Past chairpersons of the NHRC include eminent jurists like Justice HL Dattu, who held the post from 2016, and Justice KG Balakrishnan, who served from 2010 to 2016.
