The Indian Army has suspended a senior officer for a period of 90 days following serious allegations of misconduct. Colonel Ashish Singh Mehta, the commanding officer of 16 JAT, part of 16 RAPID in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, is facing a total of twelve charges under the Army Act.
The Charges and Suspension Order
The suspension was formally issued by Brigadier Raman Sharma, Commandant of the Rajputana Rifles Regimental Centre in New Delhi, where Colonel Mehta is currently attached. The action is based on directions from the General Officer Commanding Delhi Area dated May 1, 2025, and further orders from the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Command dated August 28, 2025.
Colonel Mehta faces a dozen charges, with the most prominent being an alleged attempt to shield a jawan from his unit who was under investigation by the Delhi Area Provost Unit. Specifically, he has been charged with ten counts under Army Act Section 63 for acts prejudicial to good order and military discipline. Additionally, he faces two charges under Section 45 of the Army Act for conduct unbecoming of an officer.
Details of the Proceedings and Defence
A hearing for the charge proceedings was conducted on December 5, 2025, at the Rajputana Rifles Regimental Centre, where a summary of evidence was recorded. The subsequent suspension order, effective from December 12, 2025, cited the gravity of the alleged offences and stated that his character and conduct as an officer and a gentleman had been impugned. The order was issued under Para 349 of the Regulations for the Army, 1987, and is set to be reviewed after the 90-day period.
In response, Colonel Mehta has made a representation to the Army authorities challenging his suspension. He has demanded:
- The immediate quashing of what he terms an "illegal suspension order," alleging it violates the Army's Suspension Policy of 2006.
- A certified copy of the court of inquiry proceedings and all related file notings.
- A declaration that the December 5 hearing is invalid for violating Army Rule 22.
- A fresh, independent re-analysis of the court of inquiry, arguing the existing one is fundamentally defective, lacks admissible evidence, and is based on presumptions.
Context and Implications
This case highlights the Indian Army's internal disciplinary mechanisms in action. The suspension of a commanding officer on such a multitude of charges is a significant step, underscoring the institution's commitment to accountability. The officer's vigorous defence, including claims of procedural violations, sets the stage for a closely watched legal and administrative process within the military justice system. The outcome will depend on the progress of the disciplinary proceedings and the evaluation of the evidence presented by both sides.
