The Tripura High Court has set aside the removal of Gautam Sarkar from his position as President of the West District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, observing that the authorities violated principles of natural justice and failed to comply with due legal procedure.
A division bench comprising Justice Dr. T. Amarnath Goud and Justice S. Datta Purkayastha directed the government to issue show-cause notice to Sarkar and thereafter pass a reasoned and lawful order if any action is to be taken. However, the court clarified that until fresh proceedings, Sarkar shall not discharge duties as President respectively.
Sarkar had challenged the validity of the inquiry that led to the removal order dated February 12, 2026, from the post of President of the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, West Tripura. He argued that the proceedings were initiated based on complaints and conducted under the Consumer Protection (Qualification for Appointment, Method of Recruitment, Procedure of Appointment, Term of Office, Resignation and Removal of the President and Members of the State Commission and District Commission) Rules, 2020.
In his writ petition, he alleged that the inquiry was carried out in violation of statutory provisions and Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, denying him a fair opportunity to defend himself, including the right to cross-examine witnesses. He further contended that the inquiry report was biased, predetermined, and mechanically acted upon.
The removal was based on allegations raised by litigants, lawyers, and female staff members, accusing him of misconduct, including appearing intoxicated in court and consuming alcohol during office hours.
