IT is redeeming to read the Chief Justice’s remarks that corrupt elements would not be allowed to enter the parliament. Further observation by him that every contestant should be subjected to strict scrutiny is encouraging.

But corruption has many guises. Nevertheless, with all its manifestations, it is loathsome and condemnable. It is a disease from which no one is immune. It does not respond to ordinary cure treatments, but requires major surgery.

Owing to the collusion between the two parties, corruption is extremely hard to prove in the court of law. Moreover, it is not only confined to accepting cash. An individual may scrupulously be honest in financial matters but very weak morally or in work ethic.

Similarly, if a person is swayed by personal prejudices such as racial, ethnic, social, cultural, jealousy, in his/her work - related decisions, this would be tantamount to corruption.

Our history tells us that corruption charges are extremely difficult, if not impossible, to prove. This is one reason that parties, despite being corrupt, claim that they are innocent.

It would be better for the SC to shed some light on its claim. Being the final interpreter of the constitution, it should define the word corruption.

RAJA SHAFAATULLAH Islamabad