Judicial Service Commission flags poor upkeep of judges’ residences

Colombo, August 07 (Daily Mirror) - The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has instructed all judicial officers to ensure that their official residences and surrounding environs, including boundary walls, are kept clean and orderly, citing concerns over maintenance and public perception.

The JSC said it's important to keep official homes in good condition so they reflect the dignity and professionalism of the judiciary.

The Secretary of the JSC, Prasanna Alwis, said that the public expects these residences to reflect the respect and proper conduct associated with the judicial office.

The Commission said that it has received reports indicating poor maintenance of official residences, including uncleaned doors, windows, roofs, and floors. Some rooms are reportedly unused or neglected, while faulty electrical appliances, left unrepaired over long periods, pose safety risks to both judges and their families. The lack of regular maintenance has led to costly repairs, the secretary said.

In addition, the Commission said that inspections of equipment, machinery, and furniture in these residences are not being carried out regularly. Issues such as collapsing walls, overgrown trees, and unpainted surfaces have also been flagged, along with blocked roof gutters that promote mosquito breeding and threaten public health.

Pointing to these concerns and the large amount of public money spent on maintaining official residences, the JSC said that neglect leads to wasted funds and harms the professional image of the judiciary. Accordingly, judicial officers have been reminded to take immediate action to properly maintain their residences and surroundings.

The JSC further said that Technical Officers attached to each High Court Zone will be granted access to inspect official residences quarterly to ensure compliance with maintenance standards.