Daughter of Supreme Court cook secures scholarships at top US universities. What CJI DY Chandrachud did

CJI DY Chandrachud felicitated Pragya after she secured scholarships at two Ivy League colleges.

On Wednesday, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud felicitated the daughter of a cook working at the Supreme Court. The reason behind the heartwarming gesture was the feat that Pragya had achieved. The 25-year-old law researcher secured scholarships to pursue Masters at two top US universities – the University of California and University of Michigan.

Pragya, who is the daughter of Ajay Kumar Samal, received a standing ovation by Chandrachud and other Supreme Court judges at the judges’ lounge. In a video that has gone viral online, the CJI was seen honouring her both her mother and father and gifting shawls to them. "It is a matter of pride for all of us," he was heard saying to Samal, as per Live Law.

He later gifted a copy of the Indian Constitution to Pragya that signed by all the Supreme Court judges. "It is a privilege and an honour," Pragya said while overcome with emotions.

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"I feel that if you work hard and want to move forward, then you will find resources. It shouldn't happen in a country that a student is hardworking doesn't get resources. This is our responsibility. It is not just the responsibility of the government but also the citizens to ensure that every child, who wants to do higher studies or excel in sports, can achieve their dreams," CJI told PTI.

“We know Pragya has managed something on her own, but we will ensure she manages to get whatever is required… We expect that she should come back to serve the country,” Justice Chandrachud said according to a report by NDTV.

"If you have the zeal and passion to pursue law as a career in India then you will find many people around willing to help. Even if you are a first-generation lawyer, you need to have that positive approach," Pragya was quoted as saying, as per NDTV.

Calling CJI DY Chandrachud her role model, Pragya further added, "With the live streaming of court hearings, everyone can witness his eloquence. He nurtures young legal minds, and his words are invaluable. He is my role model."