No compromise on judiciary's image

Calling upon judges to be sincere about the judiciary's dignity and interests, Chief Justice Md Muzammel Hossain yesterday warned that no judicial official involved in tarnishing the judiciary's image would be spared.
“One must keep in mind that he/she is a judge or judicial official. Some exceptions in this regard have been noted in recent times which are undesirable...I make it very clear that I will not make any concession in the interest of the judiciary,” he said.
He was addressing 170 district judges and equivalent officials at the Supreme Court (SC) Annex Building auditorium. SC Registrar AKM Shamsul Islam moderated the programme.
Justice Muzammel said some “unexpected incidents” occurred due to some district judges' lack of awareness and responsibility.
“I hope every district judge remains careful...You must remember that the judiciary is people's final resort…I think the trust and belief people still have on the judiciary cannot be compromised,” he said.
Justice Muzammel said some lower court judges were not following directives to hold judicial proceedings on time, from 9:30am to 4:30pm, except weekly and government holidays.
Lower courts do not comply in due time even after the SC asks for files and gives reminders, leading to the backlog of cases. The district judges should increase their monitoring of the movements of reports of the SC's summons or notice, he said.
He warned of taking stern action if district judges and equivalent officials go for leave without informing the SC registrar.