New Delhi : Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has stopped his morning walks owing to the alarming levels of air pollution in Delhi. During an informal conversation with journalists at the Supreme Court, CJI Chandrachud mentioned that his doctor had advised him to avoid outdoor activities early in the morning to reduce the risk of respiratory issues.
“I usually go for a morning walk around 4-4:15 am, but I stopped today due to the increase in air pollution,” the CJI said, reflecting growing concerns about the deteriorating air quality in the national capital.
Changes in Supreme Court Procedures
The CJI also announced significant reforms in how journalists cover Supreme Court proceedings. Moving away from the previous requirement of a law degree for accreditation, he stated that reporters would no longer need legal qualifications. Additionally, accredited journalists will now be allowed to park their vehicles on Supreme Court premises, improving access to the institution.
Digitisation and AI Implementation
CJI Chandrachud highlighted the digitisation of court records and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to translate judgments into regional languages. He revealed that retired district judges were assisting with reviewing and correcting the AI-generated translations, ensuring accuracy.
He further added that the digitisation efforts have allowed judges to access case files on their iPads, making it possible to work even while traveling, including on flights.
Post-Retirement Plans
As his retirement approaches on November 10, CJI Chandrachud indicated that he intends to rest initially. However, he did not elaborate on any long-term plans after leaving office.
The CJI’s comments come amid rising pollution levels in Delhi, which consistently worsens during the winter months, causing health concerns for residents and prompting many to limit outdoor activities.
