CJI Chandrachud Reprimands Petitioner for Informal Language in Court
Chief Justice of india DY Chandrachud took a petitioner to task on monday for using the informal term “yeah” during court proceedings. Emphasizing the importance of decorum, he stated, “Don’t say ‘yeah’, say ‘yes’. This is not a coffee shop; this is a court.” He added, “I am a little allergic to people saying ‘yeah’.”
This incident occurred while the court was reviewing a case in which the petitioner sought an internal inquiry against a judge who had denied him relief. The litigant, representing himself, referenced a petition where he included retired Chief Justice ranjan gogoi as a respondent, claiming the petition was filed in May 2018.
Expressing surprise, CJI Chandrachud questioned the appropriateness of filing a public interest litigation (PIL) against a sitting judge, asserting, “There has to be some dignity. You cannot simply demand an inquiry against a judge because you were unsuccessful in your case.” He reminded the petitioner that Justice Gogoi, as a former Chief Justice, deserved respect, stating, “We cannot tolerate this.”
The petitioner argued that Justice Gogoi had dismissed his case based on an incorrect statement and alleged significant legal errors in the judgment. CJI Chandrachud responded, “Regardless of right or wrong, the supreme Court's judgment is final. Your review has been dismissed, and you should file a curative petition instead, but you refuse to do so.”
CJI Chandrachud Asks lawyer to Lower His Voice
In a separate incident on september 9, during a hearing related to a kolkata rape and murder case, CJI Chandrachud admonished a lawyer for raising his voice. The exchange heated up when senior advocate kapil sibal presented videos and photos, claiming involvement of bjp leader Bagchi in protests against the case. In response, Bagchi challenged Sibal’s credibility, leading to a tense moment.
CJI Chandrachud addressed Bagchi, saying, “Can you first lower your pitch? Remember, you are speaking to three judges, not a large audience watching via video.”