'Vacate official residence immediately'; Top court in fix over Justice Chandrachud's extended stay

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court's administrative wing asked the central government to take immediate action to evict former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud from his official residence. The order comes after the failure of the former Chief Justice to vacate his official residence at number 5 on Krishna Menon Marg in New Delhi, despite retiring in November 2024.

The rule stipulates Chief Justice vacate residence after six months of retirement. D.Y. Chandrachud was supposed to move to bungalow number 14 on Tughlaq Road.

"The permissible period allowed for Chandrachud to stay in the official residence has expired. Yet, he is continuing in the official bungalow. It should be taken back," the Supreme Court administrative wing mentioned in a letter to the Ministry of Urban Affairs.

Justice Chandrachud had obtained permission from his successor, former Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, to continue in the residence on a rent of Rs 5,430 till April 30. The extension is requested minding the ongoing renovation work in his new residence. Justice Khanna granted permission with the condition that it would not be extended again.

With Chandrachud delaying his shift to the new residence, Justice Khanna had to retire in May without being able to access the official residence of the chief justice. Justice B.R. Gavai, who then took over as Chief Justice, is continuing in his former residence due to the quandary. Former Chief Justices are allowed to remain in Type 7 official bungalows until alternative arrangements are made. Justice Chandrachud took office as the 50th Chief Justice of the country in November 2022.

Meanwhile, Justice Chandrachud reasoned that his extended stay was necessary due to the medical attention needed for his daughter. Chandrachud said he was fully aware of the responsibilities and promised to vacate the residence in a few days.