CJI Breaks Silence On Justice Mehta’s Allegations Against Rajasthan HC Acting CJ

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has responded to serious allegations raised by Supreme Court Justice Sandeep Mehta against Rajasthan High Court Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma, stressing that complaints against a sitting judge must be examined through established institutional mechanisms.

Justice Mehta has written three separate letters to the CJI, alleging administrative irregularities and selective listing of cases during Justice Sharma’s tenure as Acting Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court. The allegations have now prompted a response from the Chief Justice of India, who underlined the importance of following due institutional procedure.

CJI Kant said allegations made against a sitting judge cannot, by themselves, be treated as findings against that judge. He also stressed that Justice Sharma must be given a fair opportunity to respond to the allegations.

The CJI's response comes as he is on a four-day visit to Germany and the UK. His remarks underline the distinction between allegations and established findings, while placing the matter within the institutional framework used to deal with concerns involving members of the judiciary.

Justice Mehta’s letters have raised questions over the administration of the Rajasthan High Court, particularly regarding the handling and listing of cases. However, the CJI’s response makes clear that such allegations cannot automatically be regarded as proof of wrongdoing.

The development brings attention to the judiciary’s internal mechanisms for addressing complaints against sitting judges, where allegations are expected to be examined through established procedures and with an opportunity for the concerned judge to present his side.

For now, the matter remains at the stage of allegations and institutional consideration, with the principles of fairness and due process forming the central focus of the CJI’s response.