Justice Sanjay Karol retired from the Supreme Court on Saturday, bringing an end to a judicial career marked by compassion, accessibility and a strong commitment to encouraging young lawyers.
Affectionately known as 'Chachaji' among members of the Bar, Justice Karol earned the nickname for two reasons. He was known for his warm and encouraging approach towards young advocates and had appointed nearly 500 young lawyers as amicus curiae in different cases. His distinctive appearance also reminded many of the popular comic-book character Chacha Chaudhary.
Justice Karol, who hails from Garli, Himachal Pradesh's first heritage village, was widely respected for his simple and approachable manner.
One of the important judgments associated with his tenure was his recognition of the economic value of the unpaid work performed by homemakers. In a significant judgment delivered on June 11, 2026, Justice Karol assessed the contribution of a woman who died in a road accident at Rs 30,000 per month for compensation.
On that basis, the Supreme Court enhanced the compensation payable to her family to Rs 63 lakh, from the Rs 8 lakh awarded by the High Court.
The judgment viewed household work, childcare and the contribution of women within the family in a broader social and economic context. Justice Karol observed that women's contribution is not confined to biological reproduction; they also play a crucial role in creating the "human capital" on which the country's economic progress depends.
In another notable ruling, Justice Karol held that the Railways should avoid referring to passengers as "second class", reflecting his sensitivity towards language and dignity.
His humane approach was also highlighted during his farewell ceremony by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant. Recalling an incident from Justice Karol's tenure as a judge of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, the CJI said that Justice Karol once saw a milkman suddenly collapse by the roadside. He stopped his car, helped the man, and ensured that he was taken to hospital and received treatment.
Justice Karol took charge as a judge of the Himachal Pradesh High Court on March 8, 2007. He later became Chief Justice of the Tripura High Court on November 14, 2018, and subsequently served as Chief Justice of the Patna High Court.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while heading the Patna High Court, he also took steps to arrange food for people in need.
With his retirement, Justice Karol's judicial journey has come to an end. But his legacy will extend beyond the courtroom - particularly his recognition of the invisible and unpaid labour of homemakers as an important economic contribution.
For generations of young lawyers who knew him as 'Chachaji', however, his greatest legacy may simply be the encouragement, warmth and humanity with which he approached the profession.
