In a recent interview with All India Radio, Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud reflected on the challenges and nuances of the legal profession, discussing the critical need to provide young lawyers with a stable foundation, adequate mentorship, and fair compensation to support their growth. Addressing the hurdles faced by newcomers, CJI Chandrachud noted that the legal career is often a tough path, where the financial rewards at the beginning may seem modest, if not outright discouraging. He emphasized that young lawyers must be encouraged to persevere, maintain sincerity, and dedicate themselves fully during these formative years, as the work they put in early on lays the groundwork for future success and professional integrity.
Chandrachud highlighted that mentorship within the legal community should be a two-way process, where both seasoned and young lawyers benefit from shared learning and experience. He emphasized the need for established lawyers to re-evaluate their approach to compensation for juniors, calling for a shift towards providing fair wages and conditions that acknowledge the contributions and learning of young legal aspirants. By doing so, senior lawyers can foster a more supportive environment that allows young entrants to focus on learning without the burden of financial strain, which is essential for the profession’s longevity and the ethical development of new talent.
Reflecting on his own career, CJI Chandrachud shared anecdotes from his time as a college student in Delhi, where he worked with All India Radio (AIR) as a presenter after successfully auditioning for Akashvani. He recalled his long-standing connection to AIR, which he had nurtured since childhood when his mother, a classical musician, would take him to AIR studios in Mumbai. This early exposure inspired his deep respect for radio broadcasting and the iconic voices of AIR, such as Devki Nandan Pandey, Pamela Singh, and Lotika Ratnam, who left a lasting impression on him. Growing up listening to news bulletins in Hindi, English, and Sanskrit alongside his parents, he developed an appreciation for the role that AIR played in shaping public understanding and connection to the world.
CJI Chandrachud’s insights reflect his broader perspective on the legal profession’s evolving landscape. He expressed a call for structural changes that acknowledge the hard work and potential of young lawyers, underscoring the importance of mentorship, fair compensation, and mutual respect within the profession. His reflections on both his professional journey and his connection to All India Radio offer a nuanced view of the values he believes are vital to fostering an inclusive, ethically driven, and resilient legal community in India.
