55.1 Just Rule

 55.1 Just Rule

Question:

          What is the best way to administer justice?

Answer:

With thoughtful consideration, searching inquiry, impartiality,

              and consultation with experts to enforce the law justly:

that is the proper way to administer justice.                             (Couplet – 541)

ஓர்ந்துகண் ணோடாது இறைபுரிந்து யார்மாட்டும்

தேர்ந்துசெய் வஃதே முறை.                                          (குறள் – 541)

          Explanation:

              During the days of the monarchy, the king had the executive, judiciary, and legislative powers. He decided the law of the land. He was responsible for law and order in the country. When someone committed a crime, the king was supposed to determine the punishment and ensure that the proper sentence was carried out. In couplet 541, Valluvar says that the king should not show any favoritism towards the criminal, consult the law and the legal experts, if necessary, and use his authority to order proper punishment. The advice offered by Valluvar is equally applicable to the judges of the present day.