Rajasthan High Court Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma has rejected the allegations made against him by Supreme Court judge Justice Sandeep Mehta, describing them as “baseless” and driven by “animosity”.
In his first public response to the controversy, Justice Sharma said he had already submitted his reply, along with supporting evidence, to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant. He also appealed to the media and members of the Bar to wait for the CJI’s decision.
Justice Sharma denies allegations
Justice Sharma said he issued the clarification in view of “Recent developments in the media and social media”. He maintained that he had “denied with evidence” the allegations raised by Justice Mehta and described them as “unfounded, false and factless”.
Justice Mehta had written three letters to the CJI on August 2, 10 and 17, seeking the appointment of a chief justice from another high court to lead the Rajasthan High Court and asking that Justice Sharma be transferred out of the state.
The Supreme Court judge had accused the acting chief justice of maladministration, corruption, nepotism and favouritism. He also alleged that Justice Sharma, as master of the roster, selectively moved cases to his own bench and favoured “rich and influential” litigants.
Appeal for restraint until CJI decision
Justice Sharma urged the media, lawyers and others to follow judicial principles and refrain from reaching conclusions before the matter is examined through the appropriate process.
“I have complete faith in the Indian judicial system,” he said.
He added that he would present his side before the media once he received permission from the CJI and explain his position publicly “at the right time”.
CJI Surya Kant had earlier said allegations against a sitting judge should not be treated as established findings without due process.
“The fact that allegations have been made cannot by itself be treated as a finding against the judge,” CJI Kant had said, according to Hindustan Times.
Rajasthan HC yet to get permanent chief justice
The controversy comes as the Rajasthan High Court continues to function without a permanent chief justice, with Justice Sharma serving in an acting capacity.
On September 1, the Supreme Court collegium recommended Chhattisgarh High Court judge Justice Sanjay Kumar Agrawal for the post.
The recommendation came amid protests by lawyers in Jaipur and Jodhpur seeking the appointment of a regular chief justice. Justice Sharma has also opted out of judicial work until September 5 as the controversy continues.