Stronger Public Health Infrastructure Vital for Democracy, Says Former CJI Chandrachud
Former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud calls for stronger public health infrastructure in Delhi to support marginalized communities and ensure patient welfare.
Former Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has made a powerful plea for the strengthening of public health infrastructure in Delhi, highlighting it as a cornerstone for national progress and a necessity for the survival of marginalized communities.
Speaking during his engagements in the national capital on Sunday, October 25, 2026, the former CJI emphasized that the strength of a vibrant democracy is reflected in the robustness of its public institutions. He specifically pointed toward the healthcare sector, arguing that these institutions are not just service providers but are fundamental to the overall success of the nation.
Lifelines for the Marginalized
While acknowledging the role that both private and public sectors play in societal growth, Justice Chandrachud underscored the irreplaceable value of government-run medical facilities. He described public hospitals as critical lifelines for millions of citizens.
The former CJI noted that a vast number of individuals are often forced to travel across different regions in a desperate search for affordable medical treatment. To address this disparity, he asserted that existing public frameworks must be fortified, ensuring that patient care and general welfare remain the top priorities.
A Call for Compassion in Medicine
The former CJI's advocacy for healthcare extended beyond infrastructure to the very heart of medical practice. During his address at the 55th-anniversary celebrations of the University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS) in Delhi, he spoke directly to the next generation of healthcare providers.
Justice Chandrachud urged medical students and practicing doctors to integrate the following values into their professional lives:
- Compassion and Humanity: He stressed that the medical profession must be rooted in a deep sense of empathy.
- Mental Health Awareness: He highlighted the critical need for awareness surrounding mental health within the field.
- Unbiased Care: He insisted that every patient deserves a high standard of care, regardless of their social status, personal beliefs, or individual circumstances.
"Patients should be treated with humanity and without prejudice," the former CJI remarked, reminding the medical community that the dignity of the patient is paramount.