SC judge seeks removal of Rajasthan HC acting CJ over misconduct

Supreme Court judge Justice Sandeep Mehta has written three letters to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant in August, seeking the immediate replacement of Rajasthan High Court Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma, alleging misconduct, favouritism, and conduct unbecoming of a leader. Times Now reports that Justice Mehta accused Justice Sharma of threatening colleagues with retributive action including transfer, and claimed to have received complaints raising doubts on his integrity. The Hindu Business Line adds that Justice Mehta described a 'grim and disturbing scenario' in the high court, citing maladministration and malpractice on judicial and administrative sides.

Justice Mehta, who was elevated to the Supreme Court from the Rajasthan High Court, wrote that cases were suddenly shifted to the acting chief justice's bench without cause, and that judicial officers were humiliated to satisfy a 'personal vendetta'. He also alleged a 'fanciful plan' for a multi-storied guest house was a waste of public money, and that a full court meeting was held to designate favoured advocates as seniors on a working day. Justice Sharma, due to retire on September 26, was appointed acting chief justice in September last year.

The letters were also forwarded to other Collegium members and the President. A Supreme Court official said the CJI is currently on an official tour abroad. Justice Mehta has not received a response after his August 17 letter.