SC Asks Govt to Reclaim CJI Bungalow Occupied by Retired Justice DY Chandrachud

In a rare and assertive move, the Supreme Court administration has formally requested the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) to take back possession of the official residence allotted to the Chief Justice of India, currently occupied by former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud.

The court’s letter, dated July 1, pertains to Bungalow No. 5 on Krishna Menon Marg in Lutyens’ Delhi. Justice Chandrachud retired in November 2024, but continues to reside in the property well beyond the permissible period laid down under Rule 3B of the Supreme Court Judges (Amendment) Rules, 2022. As per the rules, a retired CJI is entitled to retain a Type VII government accommodation for a maximum of six months. That period ended on May 10, 2025. An additional extension, granted until May 31, has also lapsed.

Justice Chandrachud, in his response, cited personal circumstances for the delay in vacating the premises. He explained that although the government had allotted him an alternative rented accommodation, it required major renovations due to long-term disuse.

“I totally understand it is my personal issue. But I should also make it clear why it has taken me so long to look for a house,” he said, adding that the court administration had been informed of the situation.

Justice Chandrachud further said his housing difficulties were compounded by the medical needs of his two daughters, who suffer from severe comorbidities, including nemaline myopathy, and require regular care at AIIMS.

According to records, Justice Chandrachud first sought permission in December 2024 to remain at the Krishna Menon Marg bungalow until April 30, 2025, citing delays in preparing his allotted residence at 14 Tughlak Road. The delays were reportedly due to construction restrictions imposed under GRAP-IV pollution control measures. The MoHUA allowed the extension, charging a nominal licence fee of ₹5,430 per month.

Subsequently, he made an oral request for an additional extension until May 31, which was approved with a clear warning that no further extensions would be allowed.

The Supreme Court's latest communication reaffirms that the final extension has expired and reminds MoHUA that the rules do not permit any further stay in the CJI’s official residence beyond the specified period.

While post-retirement extensions are not uncommon for senior officials, it is highly unusual for the Supreme Court to formally urge the Union government to act on reclaiming official property.

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