GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 6th July: The Supreme Court administration has written to the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs seeking immediate possession of the official residence of the Chief Justice of India (CJI), which continues to be occupied by former CJI DY Chandrachud, nearly eight months after his retirement.
Justice Chandrachud, who demitted office on November 10, 2024, has exceeded the permitted six-month grace period under government rules for occupying Type VIII government accommodation. According to a letter dated July 1, the Supreme Court administration has asked the Centre to reclaim 5, Krishna Menon Marg, stating that both the extension approved until May 31, 2025, and the official grace period under Rule 3B of the 2022 Rules have expired.
“I am to request you to take possession of Bungalow No. 5, Krishna Menon Marg, from Hon’ble Dr Justice DY Chandrachud without any further delay,” the letter from a senior SC official reads.
The development comes at a time when the apex court faces an accommodation crunch. Of the 33 sitting judges, four have not yet been allotted official residences. Three are living in court-provided transit flats while one is staying in a state guest house.
Justice Chandrachud Responds: Family Circumstances Delayed Shift
Responding to the issue, Justice Chandrachud said the delay was due to personal circumstances, particularly the health needs of his two daughters, who suffer from nemaline myopathy, a rare muscular disorder. He also said the government-allotted rented accommodation is under renovation and that he had communicated this to the SC administration.
“I have already been allotted an accommodation… and I will shift the very next day that the house is ready,” Justice Chandrachud said.
“I totally understand it is my personal issue… I have occupied the highest judicial office and am completely cognizant of my responsibilities,” he added.
Justice Chandrachud further clarified that he had requested permission from then CJI Sanjiv Khanna to retain the bungalow till April 30, 2025, and later orally requested a short extension until May 31, which was also granted. The arrangement required him to pay ₹5,430 per month in licence fees.
SC: No Further Extensions Permitted
With both deadlines now past, the Supreme Court has said no further extensions will be allowed and has urged the ministry to act promptly to ensure possession is taken.
