LI Network
Published on: 27 August 2023 at 14:22 IST
Speaking at the 31st annual convocation of the National Law School of India University in Bengaluru, CJI Chandrachud shared his approach to supporting female law clerks.
He mentioned that he permits women law clerks to work remotely if they inform him about menstrual cramps affecting their well-being.
“In the previous year, four out of five law clerks were women. It is common for them to reach out to me and express that they are dealing with menstrual cramps. I advise them, ‘Please work from home and prioritize your health.’ We have also taken steps to provide sanitary napkin dispensers in the women’s restrooms at the Supreme Court of India,” he stated.
The CJI also touched upon the career decisions that law graduates often face and offered guidance on navigating this challenge.
He recommended that students not rush into choosing a specific path within the legal field but instead explore the various avenues available.
“Life is lengthy, and dedicating a few years to explore the possibilities and intricacies of the legal field will not put you at a disadvantage. Every job will equip you with skills transferable to other roles. Always question what you are leaving behind in the world; it might be a slight improvement,” he advised.
He emphasized the importance of embracing one’s current role wholeheartedly and encouraged students to live in the present. He noted that if they find themselves unsatisfied, they can always transition into another profession.
Concluding his speech with optimism, CJI Chandrachud used modern phrases familiar to the present generation.
“I’ve heard that when things conclude, the current generation labels it as ‘OLTs’ – one last time. Now, you will encounter many ‘FTs’ – first times. Your first interaction with a client, your debut appearance in court, receiving your first paycheck, facing your initial criticisms. May your ‘FTs’ be as memorable as your ‘OLTs’,” he expressed.
He also cautioned the students to stay grounded and true to their origins, advising them not to disregard the support systems that aided their journey towards success.
“As you progress, never forget to acknowledge the ladder that elevated you on this journey of life,” CJI Chandrachud concluded.