Delhi High Court Imposes ₹20,000 Fine on Centre for Concealing Facts in Sameer Wankhede Promotion Case

 

The Delhi High Court imposed a fine of ₹20,000 on the Central Government for withholding critical information in its petition seeking review of a ruling concerning the promotion of IRS officer Sameer Wankhede. A division bench comprising Justice Navin Chawla and Justice Madhu Jain dismissed the review petition and criticized the government for its lack of transparency, underscoring the necessity of full disclosure in judicial proceedings.

In its review plea, the Central Government had argued that the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) had failed to consider ongoing investigations by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate against Wankhede, as well as allegations regarding a forged caste certificate. However, the High Court observed that the CAT had, in August, stayed the departmental proceedings against Wankhede—a fact that the government did not disclose in its petition. The bench emphasized that all relevant facts must be presented truthfully to the court, highlighting the duty of candor owed by the government in legal proceedings.

The matter concerns a CAT order directing the government to grant Wankhede promotion to the post of Additional Commissioner, effective from January 1, 2021, if deemed suitable by the Union Public Service Commission. The Centre had sought a review of this decision, citing pending investigations and allegations. The High Court, however, upheld the CAT order, noting that no departmental charge-sheet had been issued against Wankhede and that he had neither been suspended nor formally charged in any criminal case.

By imposing the fine, the High Court reinforced the principle that the government must maintain transparency and honesty in legal filings. The ruling serves as a reminder that courts rely on the accuracy and completeness of information provided by the state and that failure to disclose material facts can attract judicial censure and penalties. This decision underscores the judiciary’s insistence on accountability, even from government authorities, to ensure fairness and integrity in administrative and legal processes.

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