Ex CJI Chandrachud recalls Shastri's legacy at 32nd memorial lecture (Img: Dynamite News reporter)
New Delhi: Former CJI DY Chandrachud on Saturday underscored the growing urgency of climate change, stating that its impact is no longer abstract but visible in everyday life across India. He was speaking at the 32nd memorial lecture dedicated to Lal Bahadur Shastri at the National Museum.
Chandrachud highlighted how changing climate patterns are already affecting communities, with irregular rainfall, rising temperatures and extreme weather events disrupting normal life.
Referring to extreme weather events in regions like Joshimath and Wayanad, he said environmental shifts are already affecting communities and livelihoods. “When 95 of the world’s 100 hottest cities are in India on a single day, with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius, these are not just numbers- they shape how people live, travel, and survive”, the former CJI added.
“What are tariffs? Tariffs are all about transactional ethics. You stop buying Russian oil, and I’ll reduce your tariffs. You do this, and I’ll impose a 100% tariff. What are tariffs? Tariffs are part of the new transactional ethics game,” said former Chief Justice of India D. Y.… pic.twitter.com/c0WuIvJj0e
— Dynamite News (@DynamiteNews_) April 25, 2026
Recalling the challenges of 1965, Chandrachud noted that Shastri led by example during a period of war and food shortage. Instead of asking citizens to sacrifice first, he began by fasting himself, inspiring a nationwide response. What followed was a collective movement, with families voluntarily skipping meals, turning it into a symbol of shared responsibility and national resolve.
Courts must ensure State actions respect dignity and justice: Dr DY Chandrachud
He also highlighted the enduring impact of the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” stating that it placed soldiers and farmers at the heart of India’s strength and self-reliance. In moments of crisis, Shastri reassured citizens of their resilience, restoring confidence in a nation still recovering from earlier setbacks.
While addressing the Shastri Memorial Lecture, former CJI Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud said, "War, as recently as in the Gulf, tells us that what happens in the Strait of Hormuz can have a possible impact not only on energy markets in India and Indonesia, but on elections in… pic.twitter.com/U0rZeAvMkj
— Dynamite News (@DynamiteNews_) April 25, 2026
Addressing contemporary challenges, Chandrachud stressed that rapid digital expansion has made ethical responsibility more critical than ever. While affordable internet access has benefited millions, he warned that misuse of data could threaten privacy and target vulnerable groups.
Drawing parallels with nuclear technology, he said innovations can serve both constructive and destructive purposes, raising the need for stronger safeguards and legal frameworks.
