Rajasthan Bar Bodies Demand Action Against Acting High Court Chief Justice

Lawyers in Rajasthan have escalated their protest against Acting Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court, Sanjeev Prakash Sharma, following allegations of misconduct raised by a Supreme Court judge. On Monday, a group of advocates staged a demonstration outside Justice Sharma's courtroom in Jaipur, with some raising slogans.

Simultaneously, in Jodhpur, two lawyers' associations have announced a strike until Sunday. They are demanding that Justice Sharma be relieved of both judicial and administrative responsibilities pending an inquiry.

The protests stem from a series of letters written by Supreme Court Justice Sandeep Mehta to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant earlier this month. In these letters, Justice Mehta alleged "misuse of powers" by Justice Sharma and mentioned receiving complaints that cast doubt on his integrity. He has also sought Justice Sharma's transfer to another High Court and the appointment of a new Chief Justice.

The Rajasthan High Court Bar Association in Jaipur has decided to send a formal representation to the Chief Justice of India. Rajeev Sogarwal, the association's president, stated that they will request a time-bound inquiry and that the findings be made public, given the matter is already in the public domain. He stressed that a delay is not in the interest of advocates or the judiciary.

Earlier, on August 27, the three main lawyers' bodies from Jaipur and Jodhpur held an emergency meeting. They expressed serious concern over the developments, condemning any alleged misuse of office within the judiciary. The associations emphasized the need for action that prioritizes institutional dignity, independence, and transparency to maintain public faith in the justice system.