DY Chandrachud’s Last Day at Work: What Awaits Retired Chief Justices in India?

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud will step down on Sunday, vember 10, making way for Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Supreme Court's senior-most judge, who will assume charge on Monday, vember 11.

Ban on Practicing Law

Chief Justice of India (CJI) plays a vital role in delivering justice and safeguarding Constitution. After ir term ends, however, CJIs and or Supreme Court judges are prohibited from practicing law in any court in India, as stated in Article 124(7) of Constitution.

Why Ban Exists

This prohibition on post-retirement legal practice is grounded in ethical principles designed to protect public confidence in judiciary's integrity and independence. As a fundamental part of democracy, judiciary’s credibility rests on maintaining both perceived and actual impartiality. Allowing a retired judge to practice could create doubts about wher ir rulings were influenced by career considerations.

Alternative Roles for Retired CJIs

While retired Chief Justices of India (CJIs) and Supreme Court judges are prohibited from practicing law, y often find fulfilling ways to contribute to society through various roles that align with ethical guidelines:

• Commissions and Tribunals: Retired judges frequently assume leership positions in important commissions and tribunals, such as National Human Rights Commission or National Green Tribunal, where y apply ir vast experience to dress critical national issues.
• Acemic Contributions: Many retired judges eng in acemia, teaching at law schools, giving guest lectures, or publishing legal writings, sharing ir kwledge and expertise with future generations of legal professionals.
• Public Service: Some retired judges are appointed to constitutional positions, such as goverrs, or serve on various governmental committees, contributing to broer public service sector.
• Arbitration and Mediation: Many retired judges transition into arbitration or mediation, utilizing ir deep legal expertise to resolve complex disputes. Under Arbitration and Conciliation Act of 1996, y are allowed to serve as arbitrators.