Justice K.T. Thomas, former judge of Supreme Court of Bharat, is well known for his rectitude. President of India Dr Abdul Kalam decorated him with ?Padma Bhushan? award at a grand function at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, on April 5, 2007 for his impeccable judicial career and for the service he rendered to the cause of justice. After his retirement, Justice (Retd.) Thomas had headed as many as four judicial commissions, that too on sensitive issues. But he completed the task within the stipulated time in all the four instances. Never did he ask for extension of the tenure of his commissions. Also, never did he take a paisa as remuneration for his work in any of these four commissions. His logic: “The pension I get after my retirement from the Supreme Court is from government treasury. How can I take money from the government a second time for doing a government job?” He can afford to be candid on vital issues, thanks to his spotless career. For example: ?In projects like this (Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project), decisions are to be based not only on a study of geological implications; the religious sentiments of the people are also to be taken into account. The religious sentiments of the people of Bharat must be honoured and there exists a tradition in this land, of honouring religious sentiments. So, it is my definite opinion that Ram Sethu must not be broken?, says Justice (Retd.) Thomas.
