TWO GET TRINITY CROSS
Prof Ken Ju

Chief Justice Sat Sharma and technocrat Prof Ken Julien will be awarded the country’s highest honour, the Trinity Cross, at today’s Independence Awards at President’s House.

Sharma told Sunday Newsday yesterday that he felt honoured to get the award, and as a practising Hindu he has no problem accepting an award named after the Christian religious symbol. Sharma said: “I feel honoured and humbled by the whole thing.” Asked if if was a good reflection on the judiciary, he replied: “All Chief Justices of the past have got it.” He declined to get into the controversy about whether the award should be renamed to reflect the multi-religious composition of this society. Sharma said: “As Chief Justice I would not say anything on that. It would not be proper.”

So, did he feel comfortable to accept the award? Sharma replied: “Sure. I’m not going to protest or get involved in controversy. If that’s what the present position is, then that’s what the present position is. It is in the Constitution or whatever. It would be inappropriate behaviour for the Chief Justice to get embroiled in controversy. As Chief Justice it would be improper to get involved.” Asked how he felt about his award, Prof Ken Julien sounding busy, replied: “Well, it is unexpected and a tremendous honour. I never expected to receive it in my lifetime.” Asked if he thought he deserved it, Julien chuckled and said: “That’s for others to decide.” He added he had only learnt of the award 24 hours ago and so at this stage had no other comments.