New Delhi: In an unusual move, the Supreme Court administration has written to the Central Government seeking immediate repossession of the official residence occupied by former Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud. The letter, dated July 1, highlights that despite his retirement in November 2023, the former CJI has not yet vacated Bungalow No. 5 on Krishna Menon Marg in New Delhi — traditionally allocated to the sitting Chief Justice.
As per government norms, retired CJIs are permitted to stay in their official residence for a period of six months post-retirement. Justice Chandrachud’s extended stay, which was granted up to May 31 on special permission, has now exceeded the permissible limit.
The Supreme Court administration has urged the Centre to take possession of the bungalow without further delay. Responding to the development, Justice Chandrachud cited unavoidable personal reasons for the delay, stating that identifying a suitable alternative residence had taken longer than expected.