Wellness centre, universal restrooms, e-filing: Key initiatives by CJI DY Chandrachud

“For me, this is a satisfying moment. I have been working on this ever since I took over as CJI. I am a proponent of Ayurveda and holistic lifestyle. We have over 2,000 staff members, and we must look at a holistic pattern of living, not just for the judges and their immediate families but for the staff members too. I am deeply grateful to all the doctors of All India Institute Ayurveda,” he said.

This was not the first time such a unique initiative was undertaken on the Supreme Court premises since DY Chandrachud was sworn in as the Chief Justice of India.

Handbook on Combating Gender Stereotypes

Last year, the Supreme Court launched the ‘Handbook on Combating Gender Stereotypes’ to eliminate gender cliches from legal discourse to create a gender-just legal system. The handbook was introduced to guide judges across all courts to avoid using inappropriate gender terms in court orders and legal language.

Universal restrooms

On several occasions, the CJI talked about the various rights of marginalised sections of society. Last year, the top court approved gender-neutral restrooms at various locations in its complex to make them accessible to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Live-streaming of court proceedings

CJI Chandrachud has often underscored the importance of live-streaming of court proceedings to reach out to the citizens. Last year, he advocated for making live-streaming of court proceedings a ‘permanent part’ of India's judicial system and said, “I think it is important that we reach out to citizens by ensuring live-streaming of our proceedings and I have no manner of doubt that this is now a mission which is not confined to the personal preferences of your present CJI who is fond of technology but something which we will incorporate as a permanent part of our judicial system”.

Hybrid court hearings

The year 2023 reportedly witnessed the introduction of litigant-friendly facilities like the Hybrid hearing system. It was seen as one of the key achievements of the apex court. “The question no longer is whether a judge is technology-friendly. Technology is no longer a matter of choice and all judges must realise this. It is part of the system like law books. It is like a driving licence required for driving a car,” the CJI remarked during one of his hearings.

Indian courts go paperless

Aiming to minimise the usage of paper, the Chief Justice of India had last year launched 'e-filing 2.0' and told lawyers that this facility would allow them to file cases electronically and remain available round the clock. Besides this, the CJI also inaugurated an 'e-Sewa Kendra' on the top court's premises.