In a notable action reflecting the Indian Army’s zero-tolerance policy towards financial misconduct, both a Colonel and a Lieutenant Colonel are undergoing court-martial proceedings due to alleged irregularities exceeding ₹2 crore linked to military procurement activities. The officers were formerly stationed with an Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) battalion when the suspected infractions occurred.
The Colonel is set to be tried by a General Court Martial (GCM), while the Lieutenant Colonel is currently facing trial in Meerut. For the duration of these disciplinary procedures, both officers have been reassigned to different brigades under the Western Command in Meerut.
The investigation into the matter began with a Court of Inquiry (CoI) led by the commander of an Artillery Brigade, which found the officers responsible for various acts of omission and commission. The inquiry uncovered that the irregularities took place during the procurement of military stores while the two were with the EME battalion.
Notably, the Colonel’s involvement was revealed during the ongoing proceedings against the Lieutenant Colonel, which led to the Colonel’s attachment and subsequent disciplinary actions being initiated.
The Colonel is facing a total of 12 charges, including:
– Five charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
– Four charges under Section 52 of the Army Act, which pertains to the misappropriation of property with the intent to defraud.
– Three alternate charges under Section 63 of the Army Act, concerning acts prejudicial to good order and military discipline.
Conversely, the Lieutenant Colonel faces four charges under the same sections of the Army Act.
During this period, the Colonel was attending the Higher Command Course at the Army War College in Mhow. He sought permission from the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) to fulfill his course obligations before being attached, which was granted. Previously, the Colonel had received a “reproof” as a punishment, but the Army later annulled this, facilitating new disciplinary measures. He also attempted to obtain a stay on the proceedings from the Delhi High Court. In a ruling from October 2025, a Division Bench of the Delhi High Court instructed the Army to proceed with the disciplinary action promptly.
The Army has confirmed in its legal submissions that the previous punishment had been revoked and emphasized that the new proceedings are being conducted appropriately according to established rules and the powers accorded to the competent authority.
As of now, the trial for the Lieutenant Colonel continues in Meerut, while the Colonel is expected to face a General Court Martial in the near future. The identities of both officers have not been disclosed, adhering to standard military protocols regarding ongoing disciplinary matters.
This case illustrates the Indian Army’s persistent commitment to accountability and transparency within procurement practices, especially among technical units responsible for equipment management and logistical support. Defence sources affirm that the Army is dedicated to maintaining the utmost integrity and will ensure that all necessary measures are taken to uphold due process in alignment with the Army Act and applicable laws.
The situation arises amid increased scrutiny of procurement and financial oversight in the armed forces, further demonstrating the Army’s determination to address any irregularities swiftly and transparently.
