The former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud addressed concerns regarding his continued residence at 5, Krishna Menon Marg, the official bungalow allotted to the sitting Chief Justice, clarifying that he and his family had already begun transitioning to an alternate government-allotted accommodation and that their move was imminent.
The clarification comes in the backdrop of a communication issued by the Supreme Court registry to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, requesting the recovery of the official CJI residence, citing that the permissible retention period had lapsed. The official letter stated that the grace period, which expired on May 31, 2025, and the maximum six-month extension under Rule 3B of the Supreme Court Judges Rules, 2022 (which ended on May 10), had both concluded.
Justice Chandrachud, who demitted office on November 8, 2024, explained that the delay in vacating the premises was driven entirely by compelling personal circumstances. His two daughters, Priyanka and Mahi, both of whom are persons with disabilities, suffer from Nemaline Myopathy, a rare neuromuscular disorder requiring continuous medical attention, respiratory therapy, and a highly sanitized environment. “We are not delaying out of choice. Our luggage is already packed, and part of it has been shifted to the new premises,” he said, emphasizing the logistical complexity of moving with special-needs children.
Highlighting the health complications faced by his daughters, including prolonged ICU admissions and tracheostomy management, Justice Chandrachud noted that their ongoing care involves a multidisciplinary team and a nurse specialized in managing severe neuromuscular conditions. He underscored the importance of an allergen-free and sanitized space for their well-being.
Responding to allegations of special treatment, Justice Chandrachud pointed out that similar allowances had been extended to other former CJIs and senior judges. He referenced Justices U.U. Lalit and N.V. Ramana, both of whom were permitted to occupy government accommodations beyond their retirement under exceptional circumstances. He clarified that such extensions are typically granted at the discretion of the sitting CJI.
Justice Chandrachud also revealed that his continued stay at the CJI residence was on the suggestion of his successor, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who opted not to shift into the official premises. “I had intended to return to my previous government house at 14, Tughlaq Road. But Justice Khanna advised me to continue at Krishna Menon Marg since he did not wish to move in,” Chandrachud stated.
Despite the controversy, the former CJI reiterated his commitment to vacating the bungalow promptly once the alternative accommodation is fully ready to meet the medical needs of his family.
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