UP Judicial Officer Who Ordered FIR Against Police Transferred Thrice Since May

A Uttar Pradesh judicial officer, Vibhanshu Sudheer, who recently ordered registration of an FIR against police personnel accused of shooting a youth during the 2024 Sambhal violence, has been transferred three times since May 2025.

His transfer from Sambhal to Sultanpur drew criticism from opposition parties and protests from lawyers, who alleged political motivation. 

Earlier, he had held that a criminal investigation was necessary after a complaint alleged custodial firing outside the Sambhal Jama Masjid.

The Uttar Pradesh Police has stated it will challenge the order. The frequent transfers have sparked debate on judicial independence and administrative discretion.