Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud emphasized the importance of improved working conditions and a healthier work-life equilibrium within the realms of legal practices.

The CJI shared the narrative of his deceased former spouse, who herself pursued a career in law.

"When my late former wife, who practiced law, inquired about work hours at a law firm, she was informed that the commitment expected was ceaseless, spanning every hour of every day, throughout the year," remarked the CJI.

He went on to recount that she was informed that personal and family time would be a luxury she couldn't afford.

"Upon asking about maintaining a work-life balance, particularly for those with families, she was advised to seek a husband willing to manage household responsibilities, essentially negating the concept of family time," he recounted.

However, he observed that this scenario is undergoing transformation.

Speaking at the 31st annual convocation of the National Law School of India University, Bengaluru, the CJI also disclosed a progressive practice within his own domain.

He shared, "Last year, four out of five of my law clerks were women. It's not uncommon for them to inform me about their menstrual discomfort. My response is to encourage them to work from home and prioritize their well-being. Additionally, we've made sanitary napkin dispensers accessible in the female restrooms at the Supreme Court of India."

Furthermore, the CJI extended advice to the fresh graduates in attendance.

"In moments where the choice is between being an upright individual and excelling as a lawyer, I implore you to choose integrity. If triumph demands compromising one's principles or turning a blind eye to injustice, remember that the price is too steep," he counseled.

The CJI has consistently advocated for a balanced approach to work and life.

Earlier this year, in January, he underscored the need to halt the glorification of burnout within the legal profession.

He expressed concern over the legal field's inclination to take pride in enduring excessively long hours, which ultimately takes a toll on mental well-being.

"The adversarial nature of the profession contributes to this. People embrace it with pride, although it amplifies stress. Prolonged hours, relentless toil, financial anxieties... Prioritizing mental health can, in fact, enhance long-term performance. Regrettably, we've fostered a system that elevates excellence at the expense of everything else," he conveyed.