Former CJI Dhananjay Chandrachud Explains Delay in Vacating Official Residence
Former Chief Justice Dhananjay Chandrachud has provided insights into the reasons behind his delay in vacating his official residence. Citing personal family needs, particularly the health issues of his daughters, he has assured that he will leave the bungalow soon. The Supreme Court had previously requested the central government to ensure the residence is vacated, highlighting the ongoing discussions regarding this matter. Chandrachud's situation reflects the complexities faced by former judicial leaders in transitioning from their official roles. Read on to learn more about his circumstances and the Supreme Court's directives.
| Jul 6, 2025, 18:54 IST
Delay in Vacating Official Residence
After the Supreme Court administration sent a letter to the central government requesting the Chief Justice's official residence to be vacated, former Chief Justice Dhananjay Y. Chandrachud cited personal reasons for his extended stay in the bungalow. He explained that the delay was due to the needs of his family, particularly because both of his daughters have special requirements.
Justice Chandrachud elaborated, 'My daughters suffer from serious illnesses and genetic conditions, notably 'nemaline myopathy,' for which they are receiving treatment from specialists at AIIMS.' He acknowledged that finding a suitable home for the family has taken time, although he recognized that this is a personal matter. Chandrachud also clarified that discussions regarding this issue had already taken place with Supreme Court judges and officials.
He emphasized his awareness of the responsibilities that come with holding the highest judicial position and assured that he would vacate the bungalow within a few days. Chandrachud noted, 'Historically, former Chief Justices have been granted additional time to retain government housing post-retirement, often to facilitate transitions or meet personal needs.'
Letter from the Supreme Court to the Central Government
On July 1, the Supreme Court had written to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), stating that the bungalow number 5 located on Krishna Menon Marg in Lutyens' Delhi, which is designated for the current Chief Justice, should be vacated immediately.
It is noteworthy that Justice Chandrachud had stepped down from the CJI position eight months ago but continues to reside in this Type VIII bungalow. His two successors, Justice Sanjeev Khanna and the current CJI Bhushan R. Gavai, prefer to stay in their already allocated bungalows.
According to the Supreme Court's letter, Justice Chandrachud had requested an extension to stay in the bungalow until April 30, 2025, in a letter addressed to then-CJI Khanna on December 18, 2024. He cited delays in repair work due to pollution-related restrictions (GRAP-IV) at his newly allocated bungalow number 14 on Tughlak Road as the reason for his request.
Then-CJI Khanna approved this request, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs permitted the retention of the bungalow at a license fee of ₹5,430 per month. Subsequently, Chandrachud made an oral request to extend his stay until May 31, 2025, which was granted on the condition that no further extensions would be allowed.