Former CJI DY Chandrachud continues to reside in a government bungalow even after retirement. He cited his daughters' illness and renovation of the new house as reasons for the delay. He stated that he would vacate the bungalow soon.
New Delhi: Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud is still living in a government residence, eight months after his retirement. The Supreme Court has written a letter to the central government, asking them to get the bungalow vacated soon. Chandrachud, responding to this, attributed the delay to the serious illness of his daughters and the ongoing work at the new residence. He said that he is aware of his public responsibilities and will vacate the bungalow soon.
Matter came to light after Supreme Court's strictness
Former CJI Justice DY Chandrachud is currently residing in the Type-8 government bungalow located at 5 Krishna Menon Marg, Delhi. After not vacating the government residence even after nearly 8 months of retirement, the Supreme Court recently wrote a letter to the central government, asking for action in this regard. The court believes that this residence may be necessary for another officer or judicial officer at present.
'My belongings are packed, but...' - Chandrachud clarified
Justice Chandrachud said that all his belongings are packed, and he will vacate the bungalow soon. He said, "We are ready to move. Possibly within the next 10 to 14 days, the house will be vacated. We have no intention of delaying." He further added that he is well aware of his public responsibilities and decorum and has no desire to retain the government residence.
Daughters' illness is the biggest reason for delay
The former CJI mentioned that both his daughters, Priyanka and Mahi, are suffering from serious health problems. Both daughters have a rare disease, which necessitates their special care. He said that one of his daughters requires an ICU-like setup, which needs to be established in the new house. Because of this, he is getting the necessary facilities prepared before shifting to the new bungalow.
Chandrachud shared a personal experience, stating that his daughter's health suddenly deteriorated during their stay in Shimla. She had difficulty breathing and had to be admitted to the ICU for 44 days. Currently, his daughter is on a tracheostomy tube, which needs to be cleaned daily. Because of this, it has become necessary to prepare the new residence according to that medically sensitive environment.
Renovation work at the new residence is another major reason
The former CJI has been allotted a new bungalow located at Teen Murti Marg, Delhi. He said that this bungalow had been vacant for the last two years because no judge was ready to live there. The condition of the bungalow was not good, and it required renovation and reconstruction. He said that the contractor had assured to complete the work by June, but due to some necessary changes and health needs, the work took time.
