news details |
|
|
| Basic Human Values | | | IN this age of relentless pursuit of material success, human
values are the commonest casualty. Just look at the world around
us. Today, we easily doubt the integrity of almost every critical institution: political leaders, bureaucrats, judges, lawyers, policemen, doctors and so on.
Ironically, while this trend has a direct corelation with the material progress of mankind, it could be lethal for the future of the civil society.
So, what is it that keeps us going?
I firmly believe we draw sustenance from those few around us who do not compromise their integrity despite all odds; those who hold on to basic human values in the face of every challenge and temptation.
I am writing this piece as a person who saw Justice Satish Chand Mital from close quarters and believes that certain chapters of his life hold immense value for our generation. I would therefore focus on those attributes that endeared him to almost everyone he came in contact with.
During his tenure as District & Sessions Judge, Karnal, from 1966 to 1969 he conducted the Kairon Murder Case trial that finds prominent mention in the annals of judicial history. There was a moment during this trial that reinforced his belief that if one conducted oneself in a humane yet professional and dignified manner, one could make a place in any heart. How else could Sucha Singh, the killer of former chief minister of Punjab Mr Partap Singh Kairon, come up to my father after getting a death sentence from him and say: “Please excuse me for any lapse on my part during the proceedings of the case”
During his three decades of judicial service, he delivered judgements on some of the most high-profile cases involving powerful people that were litigated till the apex court. However, there is not a single instance when his judgement was set aside by a higher court. That spoke volumes about his legal acumen as well as his humane sense of propriety and justice.
In the now-famous Panipat arson case, his insights led to a turnaround in the earlier ruling in the case and 10 innocent persons belonging to labour class who were mistakenly convicted, were freed. The judgement was eventually upheld by the Supreme Court.
It is hard to believe that a person so full of simplicity could deliver landmark judgements in some of the most complex cases. Many a time when these judgements were delivered, odds were heavily stacked against him. I can’t forget the day when he came back from the court visibly very moved. He had successfully reconciled an estranged couple who were adamant on divorce upon instigation from powerful vested interests.
He took special permission to meet the couple alone and made them see reason.
A marriage on the rocks was thus saved.
I could see that it was his fatherly love and concern that helped him go that extra mile and save a marriage.It was his firm belief that when values are at the core of your persona, making decisions comes easier.
It was this sentiment that always made him go beyond the hard facts of the case and draw radically different conclusions.
His exemplary worklife did leave a mark on his profession, I believe. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
