The High Court Judge had just retired. He had an honest and an upright and fearless career.
He gave judgement fearlessly against mightiest.
His enemies used to weave and circulate fake stories to brand him as corrupt because he did not gave them favourable judgements.
Once a journalist came to him for his interview.
After interview was over, the journalist asked in a humorous way, "Sir, can I ask you a personal question?"
"Of course," said the Judge,"I have nothing to hide."
"Sir, why are you corrupt? " Journalist threw a witty question.
For a moment, the judge was taken aback. But he recomposed his mind instantly, and replied smilingly:
"This question does not arise so far. Because so far you have not offered me any bribe. After you offer me a bribe, and if I refuse it, then only I can say that I am not corrupt.
On the other hand, after you offer a bribe, and if I accept it, then only I can reply you as to why I am corrupt.
At present, your question does not arise." Replied the Judge.
Moral of story:
It is easy to say that one should not take or give bribe. When someone comes to you, offers you a hefty, a very hefty bribe and then asks you to choose between the bribe or a bullet in head, then only you can say whether one should or should not take bribe. Till then your views are premature.
Haresh Raichura
1013
(This story is told to me by the judge himself)
