Introduction:

In a recent development, the Delhi High Court addressed a contempt petition filed by Sameer Wankhede, involving the Central Administrative Tribunal’s (CAT) order from August 21 last year. The CAT had ruled against the inclusion of NCB DGP Gyaneshwar Singh in the inquiry team investigating procedural lapses by Wankhede in the Cordelia cruise drugs case. Justice Mini Pushkarna rejected the petition as not maintainable but allowed Wankhede to approach the CAT for resolution.

Arguments of Both Sides:

Wankhede, challenging the SET report, claimed an FIR by the CBI disregarded the CAT’s order. The CAT, on December 20, 2022, provided an interim order in Wankhede’s favor, mandating a personal hearing before any action based on the SET report. However, Wankhede alleged victimization despite NCSC’s observations against Gyaneshwar Singh. The Union Government argued the petition’s non-maintainability and misuse of the legal process. They emphasized that Wankhede should have approached the CAT for grievances.

Court’s Judgment:

The court clarified that it didn’t comment on the case’s merits but deemed the petition non-maintainable. Wankhede was granted liberty to approach the CAT for redressal. The Union Government contended that the notices issued to Wankhede were not related to the 2021 cruise case, leading the court to find the petition inappropriate for their jurisdiction.