Judicial Uproar in Sambhal: Two CJMs Transferred in 48 Hours Amidst Controversy

• Sambhal witnessed the transfer of two Chief Judicial Magistrates (CJMs) within 48 hours, sparking widespread protests and allegations of undermining judicial independence.
• Deepak Kumar Jaiswal was appointed CJM Sambhal, replacing Aditya Singh, who was sent back to his previous role after just two days.
• Former CJM Vibhanshu Sudhir was transferred to Sultanpur, a move lawyers termed a "punishment posting" due to his orders for FIRs against police officers.
• Vibhanshu Sudhir had notably ordered an FIR against ASP Sambhal Anuj Chaudhary and 20 other police personnel regarding alleged police firing during the Sambhal violence.
• The transfers are linked to sensitive cases, including the Shri Harihar Temple versus Shahi Jama Masjid dispute and alleged police misconduct during the November 2024 Sambhal violence.

Why It Matters: Rapid judicial transfers in Sambhal, especially of CJM Vibhanshu Sudhir, ignite protests over judicial independence.