Controversy Erupts Over Sambhal CJM's Transfer Amid FIR Order Against Police

A significant controversy has erupted in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, following the transfer of Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Vibhanshu Sudhir. The transfer, occurring amidst a police protest against an order to register an FIR and administrative opposition, has caused a stir. The issue stems from a petition filed on January 6, 2025, by Yamin, a resident of Nakhhasa police station area. He alleged that his son was shot and injured by police during alleged firing on November 24, 2024, while selling biscuits. Yamin accused then ASP Anuj Chaudhary and other police personnel. On January 9, 2026, CJM Vibhanshu Sudhir ordered the registration of an FIR against ASP Anuj Chaudhary, Inspector Anuj Tomar, and 15-20 other police officers. This order became public on January 12, 2026, and mandated a report within seven days. Earlier, on December 24, 2025, the CJM had also ordered the registration of a case against 13 police personnel, including then Bahjoi Police Station in-charge Pankaj Lavania, for a suspected fake encounter. In response, Sambhal SP Krishan Kumar Vishnoi stated on January 13, 2026, that they would not register the FIR and would challenge the CJM's order in the High Court, citing a prior judicial inquiry. Subsequently, on the night of January 20, 2026, CJM Vibhanshu Sudhir was abruptly transferred from Sambhal to Sultanpur, just before the FIR registration deadline of January 22, 2026.