The district judge in the dock

Professionals are held in high esteem by the public. Lawyers and doctors in private practice are also known to fleece the public performing a noble service with the former not used to issuing receipts for their charges. On a higher pedestal, we see judges on benches to hear cases and deliver independent judgments.

It is to court that people go as a last resort to redress their grievances spending exorbitant fees to retain lawyers. Recently the media went to town when the Homagama District Judge was allegedly charged for bribery by the sleuths of the Bribery Commission. I believe this is the first instance in judicial history when a judge succumbed to temptation as a man would to a scantily-dressed beautiful woman. With this disgraceful act of commission the judge has, wittingly or unwittingly brought down the entire judicial process in the country and a slur to the whole profession. In a country where corruption has crept into every nook and crevice it is sad to note the hydra–headed monster has spread its tentacles to the judiciary as well. The miscreant judge seems to be a notorious case as he is surrounded by supporters who had the gumption to threaten the journalists.

The judge has descended to the level of a politician notorious for brides. He has tarnished the whole profession. The law should visit him hard and fast. Money greedy lawmakers should be booted out. When a judge worships mammon, the Rule of Law suffers. The sanctity of the temple of justice must be preserved and protected at all costs.