Prosecution Concludes Arguments in 2017 Haryana Judges’ Paper Leak Case
The prosecution has finished its arguments in the 2017 Haryana Judges’ paper leak case before Special Judge Anju Bajaj Chandna. The case is being fast-tracked on the directions of the Delhi High Court.
Key Details
Special Public Prosecutor Charanjit Singh Bakhshi, assisted by advocate Amit Sahni, argued that the then Registrar Balwinder Kumar Sharma leaked the exam paper to his friend Sunita. Sunita then shared the paper with several candidates for illegal benefits.
Bakhshi stated that the evidence, including oral, electronic, documentary, and scientific, clearly shows the involvement of the accused. He emphasized that the actions of the accused have damaged public trust in the judiciary.
Defense Arguments
Balwinder Kumar Sharma, in his defense, claimed that the examination papers were under the control of a High Court Committee led by Justice Ajay Kumar Mittal. He alleged that a false inquiry was conducted to frame him.
Next Steps
The defense will present its arguments on July 19 and 20. The Delhi High Court has granted a three-month extension to conclude the trial, emphasizing the need for day-to-day hearings.
Background
The FIR was registered by the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2017 following a plea by a candidate named Suman. The case was transferred to Delhi by the Supreme Court in 2021. There are nine accused, including candidates and their relatives, involved in the paper leak.
