Judges' Meet Begins With Call to Win Trust of People

A two-day conference of the judges of the Supreme Court and chief judges of appellate courts began here on Sunday. The conference aims to discuss the challenges facing the judiciary, judges' code of conduct and review the strategic plan of the judiciary.In his inaugural address, Chief Justice Kedar Prasad Giri called on the judges to meet expectations of the people. "The general public is paying serious attention to the judiciary at a time when the institution is likely to undergo a transformation."He said that the judiciary has served the people even during difficult periods.Giri said that the judges only want to establish a system that can deliver justice. "The judiciary has been facing new challenges. The judges should be accountable to the people," he said.The Chief Justice warned the judges to be aware from those who want to tarnish the image of the judiciary.Seniormost justice of the apex court Min Bahadur Rayamajhi said that the responsibility of the judiciary has increased in the transitional period. "The judiciary is facing great challenges. It is also the time for the judiciary to win confidence of the public towards the judiciary," he said.Rayamajhi said judicial independence cannot be protected only by ensuring the same in the Constitution and Acts, he said, adding, "Only clean and ethical judges and their commitment to duty can protect the independence of the judiciary.""Independence of the judiciary never harms the state and the public. In fact, it ensures everybody's welfare and prosperity," Rayamajhi said.Rayamajhi said, "The political sector, civil society, legal circle and the media should think of the result while raising issues of the judiciary". He, however, expressed his commitment to remove "weeds" from the judiciary.Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Narendra Bikram Nembang said the government is ready to help the judiciary maintain its independence. He, however, called the judiciary to win confidence of the public.Attorney-General Yagya Murti Banjade said the Interim Constitution, 2007 has not impinged on the independence of the judiciary.President of the Nepal Bar Association Bishwokanta Mainali called the judges and the lawyers to change their style and to respect the dignity of labour. "There is no way but to obey the parliament and the Constitution."President of the Supreme Court Bar Association Prakash Raut called to rid the judiciary of corruption and irregularities. He called the judges to focus on delivering justice.