Former CJI Chandrachud Faces Inquiry Over Alleged Judicial Overreach; President Orders Investigation

Retired Patna High Court Justice Rakesh Kumar filed a complaint on November 8, 2023, alleging that former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud “showed hyperactivity” in listing a bail plea for Teesta Setalvad during court vacation, constituting possible misuse of power.

He contended Chandrachud constituted a special bench twice in one day on July 1, 2023, during the Supreme Court vacation, to grant bail after disagreement among initial judges.

The President of India has ordered an inquiry, forwarding the matter to the Ministry of Law and the Department of Personnel and Training under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act for a possible CBI inquiry. 

The investigation raises constitutional questions on accountability for a former CJI.