The Punjab and Haryana High Court has upheld the compulsory retirement of judicial officer Ved Pal Gupta, citing serious allegations of corruption and misconduct. The court dismissed Gupta's challenge to the disciplinary inquiry, emphasizing the judiciary's need to maintain the highest ethical standards.
Background
Ved Pal Gupta, a judicial officer in Haryana since 1987, faced allegations of acquiring multiple high-value properties in Gurgaon, Panchkula, and Faridabad that far exceeded his known income. These properties were linked to suspicious transactions, including dubious wills and below-market-rate acquisitions. A disciplinary inquiry, conducted by a sitting High Court judge, concluded that Gupta’s actions were corrupt and unbecoming of a judicial officer.
Key Legal Issues and Observations
1. Disproportionate Assets:
Gupta failed to explain how he financed properties inherited or purchased through questionable means, with evidence pointing to illegitimate sources of income.
2. Administrative Approvals:
Gupta argued that his property dealings had administrative approval. The court clarified that such permissions only confirm procedural compliance and do not validate the legitimacy of the funds used.
3. Judicial Integrity:
The court stressed that judicial officers must uphold the highest standards of honesty, stating, “Misconduct, especially involving corruption, erodes public trust in the judiciary.”
4. Scope of Judicial Review:
The court ruled that its review under Article 226 was limited to checking procedural fairness in the inquiry, not re-evaluating evidence.
Verdict
The High Court upheld the disciplinary authority’s decision to impose compulsory retirement, concluding that Gupta’s conduct undermined the integrity of the judiciary. This judgment serves as a stern reminder of the uncompromising ethical standards expected from those entrusted with judicial responsibilities.
