Finding home catering to daughters' special needs is difficult: DY Chandrachud after SC asks to vacate CJI residence

Stating that DY Chandrachud has overstayed in the Chief Justice's official residence, the Supreme Court has written to the Centre, urging it to ensure that the bungalow is vacated and returned to the court's housing pool.

Soon after, social media trolls picked up on the news. Words such as "taxpayers' money", "fall from grace" were used

In his response, Justice Chandrachud stressed that he was aware of his public responsibilities and had no intention to hold on to the government accommodation.

Speaking exclusively with NDTV about his daughters Priyanka and Mahi, who are in his foster care, he said their condition requires round-the-clock attention and a home tailored to their convenience.

"Priyanka and Mahi have a rare genetic disorder called nemaline myopathy which affects the skeletal muscles. This disorder has no treatment or cure anywhere in the world presently, though research is going on in India and abroad," he said.

Explaining the condition that afflicts them, Justice Chandrachud said, "Nemaline myopathy causes degeneration of the muscles and motor skills. It severely affects the respiratory system, causes severe scoliosis and issues relating to swallowing, breathing and speech and compromises all organs."

"This home, including bathrooms, has been modified for their condition," Justice Chandrachud said, stressing how just moving into any house is not an option for his family.

The former Chief Justice earlier said the government had allotted him temporary accommodation on rent, but that house was unused for two years and is currently undergoing renovation.

He has said most of his belongings are packed and he will move out as soon as the house is ready.

Speaking about his daughters' condition, he said, "Care has to be taken that they do not suffer from fatigue as it deteriorates the muscles further. For them to have a dignified life, a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including pulmonologists, ICU specialists, neurologists, respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists and counsellors work together on a daily or weekly basis."

"Priyanka has been on respiratory support since December 2021 and has a tracheostomy tube connected to a BiPAP machine. She was ventilated three times at the age of thirteen at PGI Chandigarh. The tube has to be changed several times a month and sometimes, a couple of times a week. An ICU setting has been created at home... Priyanka is susceptible to infections and has to be protected against dust, allergies and infections," Justice Chandrachud said.

"For us parents, the world revolves around their well-being. Kalpana (his wife) has striven to establish contacts with specialists, scientists and caregivers worldwide. She is actively following the current research in an effort to find a cure. As parents, we avoid travelling together without the children. As parents, we try to make their lives meaningful, fun and create an atmosphere where they lead a fulfilling life," he said.