In Brief
This appeal concerns a judicial officer disciplined for misconduct during land acquisition cases. The officer awarded enhanced compensation to subsequent purchasers who had no legal right to receive it, in violation of statutory law. The High Court found this reflected adversely on his integrity and upheld charges 4–11 of misconduct, reducing his punishment from 90% to 70% curtailment of pensionary benefits. The Supreme Court dismissed the appeal, holding that judges must decide cases solely on law and facts, not extraneous considerations. Misconduct can be established by sufficient evidence of orders passed to unduly favour parties, without requiring proof of monetary bribe. The High Court's supervisory powers under Article 235 were properly exercised.
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