Dr.K.VEERAMANI
Human life itself is like a weighing scale, men and women compared to the scale- pans. Unless both the pans are on the same level, harmony in life is
not possible. This was the central idea of the speech of the Chief Justice of India, delivered recently at a University Convocation. Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Chief Justice of India, presided over the 31st Annual Convocation of the National Law University for Women
and presented a thought – provoking speech.
The CJI narrated an amusing and also sorrowful incident in his life and captivated all the graduands; sorrowful because he recalled
his beloved wife who is no more. Long ago, when she joined a legal firm as an advocate, she had asked them about the working hours. They told her that she had to work for all the 365 days in a year and that it was 24×7 job. When she asked them how she could devote time for her family and the routine chores,
they had arrogantly advised her to marry someone who could be a full time domestic help, as the job there would never spare her
time for family related work.
To point out how the world has totally changed today, he narrated another instance. Among five of his office assistants, four were
women. At least one or two of them used to inform him over phone that they had ‘period’. The Justice used to advise them to work
from home and take care of their health. He said further addressing the students that we should understand the inexplicable biological
problems of women and treat them mercifully. We cannot pretend to be unaware of their problems.
The Chief Justice of India further said that we have provided Equality for women, but we do not think about the additional burden of domestic works that they endure. Women still have many commanding masters at home. Male chauvinism and misogyny must be eradicated. Earning is of secondary importance. Sharing the pain of women should come first. True spirit of self respect rests in our humanistic treatment
of women.
The Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud is undeniably a rare combination of rare virtues. He is not only a legal expert but also
a noble humanist, guardian of democracy and protector of the Constitution, caring much for women’s rights, common human
rights and social justice. He always speaks his mind and boldly delivers his verdict brushing aside all the contradictory views of others. His integrity, resolve and progressive outlook are admirable. This particular convocation address of the Chief Justice is a matter of pride for the womenfolk of the
entire country. Dear readers, if men and women live like level pans of a weighing scale, their life would certainly be lovable, won’t it?’
