Judicial Inquiry Closure Can Be Challenged Only in Rare Cases: Punjab & Haryana High Court

The Punjab & Haryana High Court held that closure of a preliminary inquiry against a judicial officer can only be challenged in exceptional circumstances. 

The order came in a plea by Ludhiana-based lawyer Amit Kumar, who had questioned the administrative decision to drop his complaint.

The Court held it cannot function as an appellate body over such closures unless there is proven malice, violation of fundamental rights, or a decision that shocks the public conscience.

The Court stressed judicial independence and said complaints about conduct, not moral issues, don't justify interference unless clearly proven.

The petition to initiate disciplinary action and suspend judicial work was dismissed.