Bitter, but sacred

Once regarded as the purest representation or expression of conscience, truth appears now as a silent spectator; observing how its meaning has been diluted in both private and public life. It was once the highest moral value, the compass of human behaviour, and the foundation of governance. To speak truth, though bitter was to honour life itself. Today, however, truth appears as an unwelcome guest to be tolerated only when convenient and sidelined when it demands courage or accountability.

The purpose of truth has never been merely to state facts. Its essence lies in fairness, moral clarity and alignment with justice. Truth is that invisible energy which sustains integrity in relationships, systems and nations. Yet, across many corridors of power and segments of society, it now stands overshadowed by self-interest, manipulation and the calculated art of convenience. When truth loses its voice, deception gains legitimacy and that is the most dangerous transformation any civilization can witness.

In the framework of governance, the law of the land is meant to be the visible source of truth. Every statute is an institutional promise to protect justice and equality. But the growing disregard and misuse of these very laws, both by citizens and by some officials entrusted to uphold them, have eroded their sanctity. When laws are twisted to favour a few or ignored for expedience, the spirit of justice bleeds quietly behind the curtains of bureaucracy. Abuse of law is not merely a legal wrong but it is a moral failure of the collective conscience.

To misuse authority, to manipulate the law or to protect falsehood for personal or political convenience is a betrayal, not only of the people but of the Creator Himself. Accountability, in strict moral sense extends beyond the limits of worldly courts; it is ultimately a reckoning before God, where neither rank nor rhetoric can conceal the truth.

At the helm of affairs, those vested with authority carry not only administrative duties but also a sacred moral burden to stand with truth even when it is inconvenient. To shift responsibility, to protect wrong through silence or to reward manipulation in the guise of procedure are not signs of efficient governance but symptoms of institutional decay. Leadership, at any level, demands courage, and that courage is born from faith in truth.

If society continues to glorify comfort over conviction, or diplomacy over honesty, truth will keep retreating from our offices and homes. To restore its honour, we must recognize that truth is not an abstract ideal but a living discipline, that must be practiced, protected and shared, especially by those who govern. The arrogance of authority, the misuse of law and the silence of the honest together darken the moral horizon of a nation.

Dr. Pir Naseer Ahmad, Adv.

High Court, Srinagar.