Justice Santosh Hegde concerned over growing arrogance in politics

Lingasugur: Retired Supreme Court Justice and former Lokayukta Justice N. Santosh Hegde has criticised the deteriorating law and order situation both at the State and national levels, suggesting that adopting stringent measures, including Chinese-style punishments, could help curb corruption.

Speaking to reporters in Lingasugur, Raichur district, on Wednesday, Justice Hegde highlighted the alarming rise of corruption, calling the current system of investigation and punishment ineffective. He proposed that harsher penalties, akin to capital punishment, could serve as a strong deterrent.

Justice expressed concern over the growing arrogance in politics, where individuals see no disgrace in imprisonment. He lamented the decline in moral values and decried the culture of grand receptions and celebrations for those released from jail.

He also noted his efforts to combat corruption by raising awareness among the youth, having visited 1,848 colleges to promote the message. While he acknowledged that social changes are possible, he warned that revolutionary measures could fragment the nation. Instead, he emphasised a change in attitudes, leaving it to the people to bring about transformation.

Justice Hegde further remarked that human aspirations are natural but should not spiral into perversion. Referring to the land scam in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA), he noted the persistence of stubbornness despite High Court orders. He concluded that while corruption might yield wealth, it cannot guarantee peace of mind.

The event was attended by Senior Civil Judge Manjula Shivappa Undi, Principal Civil Judge K. Ambanna and the President of the Bar Association Bhoopanagowda.