Corruption Scandals in Indian Judiciary: An Analysis

Discussions about corruption in the Indian judiciary often revolve around lower court judges and IAS officers. While it is true that some newly appointed judges have earned considerable sums, it important to understand the nuances and complexities involved.

Introduction to Corruption in the Indian Judiciary

The question often posed is whether a corrupt judge newly appointed to a lower court earns more than a newly appointed IAS (Indian Administrative Service) officer. While anecdotes suggest that some judges have made significant amounts in a short span, not every judge engages in such practices. The earnings depend on the court's jurisdiction, among other factors.

Cases of High-Earning Judges

There have been reports, albeit unverified, of certain judges who, within their brief tenure, amassed substantial sums. For instance, there was a rumour of a judge in a particular court who made around 20 to 25 crores (approximately $3.15 million) in just two years. This individual held the designation of MM (Magistrate, Metropolitan).

However, it's crucial to remember that this narrative is not universal. Just as there are honest judges, there are also honest IAS officers. Drawing comparisons based on conjectures and unverified information does not bring us closer to a just and corruption-free system. It is advisable for individuals considering any service to enter with a clear and honest mind.

Influences and Corruption in Services

Typically, young officers who join at mid-level positions are often upright and dedicated to their profession. However, as time passes, relatives and friends start to exploit these officers' names for personal, often nefarious, gains. Marriage into prestigious families can also lead to a gradual deterioration in the officer's integrity. Officer's family members from underserved backgrounds may make unrealistic and unreasonable demands, expecting the officer to elevate them socioeconomically without necessarily possessing similar capabilities. An officer may withstand these pressures for a certain period, but eventually, the situation can become unsustainable. The influence of friends and family is one of the clearest forms of corruption in India. Upright officers, faced with such pressure, often suffer physically and mentally, leading to either breaking away from familial and friendly influences or succumbing and finding their way forward.

It's important to recognize that no one is inherently corrupt; it is the pressure that leads to corruption. The greed of individuals exacerbates the issue, pushing society towards greater corruption. In some Western countries, judges are not appointed from wealthy backgrounds to avoid such pitfalls.

Perceptional Issues and Public Impressions

Perception problems can also cloud public views about officers in high positions. For instance, there was a case where a client informed his family that "Sir is writing the judgment for the Officer Inquiring into his case." This belief stemmed from seeing some of the defense brief points being accepted by the inquiry officer. The client was subsequently absolved of unjustified charges. Another case involved a judge allegedly being in cohorts with a prominent lawyer who impressed clients by showing argument briefs and claiming to write judgments for the judge.

These perceptions can lead to misunderstandings and misjudgments about the integrity of judges and other officers in their positions. It is essential to foster a transparent and open dialogue to address these issues and work towards a more equitable and just system.

Conclusion

The issue of corruption in the Indian judiciary is complex and multifaceted. While some judges and IAS officers may engage in unethical practices, it is important to remember that honesty and dedication are not uncommon traits among these professionals. Addressing the root causes of corruption, such as societal pressures and greed, is crucial for creating a more transparent and just system.