Archive · 19 Jan 2026
Chandrachud Regrets Marital Rape Law
Former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud spoke at the Jaipur Literature Festival about his biggest regret, which was not being able to change the law on marital rape.
He said that currently, a woman cannot complain about marital rape, even if it happens.
He also talked about how he tried to make the Supreme Court more open to the public by allowing live streaming of court proceedings.
He mentioned that he wanted to ensure fairness in all cases, no matter how big or small.
Chandrachud also discussed a case related to marital rape that he couldn't decide before he retired because the lawyers needed more time.
Former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud expressed regret over the lack of legal recognition for marital rape in India.
He stated that a woman subjected to non-consensual intercourse cannot complain of marital rape under current laws.
Chandrachud mentioned a marital rape case that came up just before his retirement but couldn't be decided due to time constraints.
He emphasized the importance of fairness in judicial proceedings and ensuring all parties have adequate time to present their arguments.
Chandrachud also highlighted his satisfaction with the Supreme Court's decision to allow live streaming of proceedings, making the court more accessible to the public.
- Who
- Former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud
- What
- Expressed regret over marital rape law and discussed judicial independence
- When
- Day 4 of the Jaipur Literature Festival 2026
- Where
- Jaipur Literature Festival
- Why
- To discuss his regrets and achievements during his tenure as CJI
- Event
- Jaipur Literature Festival 2026
- Speaker
- Former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud
- Session
- Ideas of Justice
- Topic
- Marital rape, judicial independence, live streaming
- Interviewer
- Vir Sanghvi
- Retirement Date
- November 10, 2024
Sources
JLF Day 4: Former CJI DY Chandrachud says Constitution is the ‘Common Stone’ holding society together
‘Bail before conviction should be a matter of right’: Chandrachud speaks amid debate over Umar Khalid case
'Everyone Is Innocent Until...': DY Chandrachud Bats For Umar Khalid’s Bail Days After Supreme Court Rejects Plea
Bail Before Conviction Should Be Matter Of Right: Ex-Chief Justice DY Chandrachud
Umar Khalid denied bail, former CJI Chandrachud says it’s a right before conviction. Then a ‘national security’ reminder
'If Fast Trial Not Possible, Bail Should Be The Rule': Ex Chief Justice
Pre-trial detention cannot be treated as punishment: Ex-CJI DY Chandrachud on Umar Khalid case
