DY Chandrachud urges youth to view law as public service: 'Law is a commitment to society'

Chandrachud called on the youth to view law not merely as a profession but as a vehicle for public service and social change.

Former Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, on Wednesday underscored the societal commitment embedded in the legal profession while speaking at News18’s Rising Bharat Summit 2025.

Chandrachud called on the youth to view law not merely as a profession but as a vehicle for public service and social change.

“The law is not just a profession—it signifies a larger commitment to society. Its essence lies in realising rights and advancing social transformation,” he said, urging young Indians to embrace the legal field with integrity and empathy.

Cautioning against impulsive decision-making, the former CJI remarked, “When faced with a crisis, allow the dust to settle before acting. Decisions must be measured, guided by the institution’s welfare and the national interest - not driven by emotion or immediacy.”

He also addressed the role of the government as a litigant, noting that it remains the country’s biggest contributor to judicial backlog.

“Judicial reform must begin at the grassroots. If the government rethinks its litigation strategy, it would pave the way for more efficient dispute resolution,” he said.