Sambhal CJM Vibhanshu Sudhir: 8 Transfers in 12 Years After Ordering FIR Against ASP

• Sambhal CJM Vibhanshu Sudhir ordered an FIR against police officers, including the ASP, in the Sambhal violence case, leading to his 8th transfer in 12 years.
• His career began in 2013 as Additional Civil Judge in Sultanpur; he has served in multiple districts, with 15 transfers including promotions.
• The controversial order on January 9, 2026, directed an FIR against CO Sambhal Anuj Chaudhary, Inspector Anuj Tomar, and 20 police personnel for alleged firing during November 2024 violence.
• Opposition parties criticized the transfer as judicial pressure, while lawyers in Chandausi protested, alleging police influence and praising Sudhir's work.
• A Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) is a district-level judicial officer overseeing criminal courts, hearing cases, and deciding on FIRs and trials, appointed through promotion after passing the PCS-J exam.

Why It Matters: CJM Vibhanshu Sudhir's frequent transfers, especially after controversial orders, highlight concerns about judicial independence.