MP High Court Confirms Dismissal of Civil Judge Accused of Misconduct During Probation

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has upheld the dismissal of civil judge Kaustubh Khera, who faced complaints of making lawyers and police officers do sit-ups and touch their ears in open court as an apology in contempt proceedings.

Additional allegations involved misbehavior with court staff, including women, and unauthorized absences.

Khera, appointed in 2019, was discharged on September 5, 2024, following recommendations from the High Court's Administrative Committee and ratification by the Full Court.

The Court ruled that Khera’s removal was not a punishment for misconduct but due to unsatisfactory performance during his probation period. The judges said the discharge was an administrative decision, not a punitive one, and followed proper rules.