New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Monday reserved its verdict on the Centre’s petition challenging the quashing of disciplinary proceedings against Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Sameer Wankhede, which had earlier been set aside by the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT).
Background of the Case
The disciplinary proceedings against Wankhede were initiated by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) following his exit from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Mumbai. The proceedings were linked to the controversial Cordelia cruise drug bust case of 2021, which had led to the arrest of Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan’s son, Aryan Khan.
Mr Wankhede challenged the disciplinary action at the CAT, arguing that the charges were politically motivated and filed with malice. On January 19, 2026, the CAT quashed the disciplinary proceedings and restrained the CBIC from proceeding further against him, also criticizing the board for acting with vindictive intent.
Read also: CAT Restrains CBIC from Acting Against IRS Sameer Wankhede; Disciplinary Charge Set Aside
Centre Approaches Delhi High Court
Following the CAT’s decision, the Union Government filed a petition in the Delhi High Court seeking revival of the disciplinary proceedings. The petition argues that the tribunal erred in quashing the charges against Wankhede and requests the High Court to restore the CBIC’s authority to proceed with disciplinary action.
A Division Bench of Justice Anil Kshetarpal and Justice Amit Mahajan heard the matter and has now reserved its verdict.
Significance of the Case
The case has drawn significant public and media attention due to Wankhede’s prominent role in high-profile narcotics cases and the controversy surrounding Aryan Khan’s arrest in 2021. The outcome of the Delhi High Court’s decision will determine whether the disciplinary proceedings against the IRS officer can be reinstated or if CAT’s quashing order will stand.
Read also: Delhi HC Directs CAT to Decide IRS Sameer Wankhede Case by Jan 14 or Within 10 Days Thereafter
