In a significant development within the Indian Army, Colonel Ashish Singh Mehta, who commanded the 16th Battalion of the Jat Regiment, has been suspended following the findings of disciplinary proceedings against him. Officials confirmed that Colonel Mehta faces a total of 12 charges related to irregularities under the Army Act. His suspension, set for an initial duration of 90 days, was enacted after a hearing at the Rajputana Rifles Regimental Centre and issued by Brigadier Raman Sharma, the Commandant of the Centre.
The specific allegations against Colonel Mehta are serious in nature, with 10 charges under Section 63 of the Army Act pertaining to actions that could undermine military discipline and order, alongside 2 charges under Section 45 concerning conduct deemed unbecoming of an officer. Notably, some of the charges include claims that Colonel Mehta attempted to shield a soldier in his unit who was under investigation by the Delhi Area Provost Unit.
This disciplinary action comes in light of directives from senior Army commanders, reflecting the seriousness with which such irregularities are treated. The charges against Colonel Mehta were discussed during a hearing held on December 5, 2025, where evidence was summarized. The suspension notice outlines that, given the severity of the alleged offenses, Colonel Mehta’s “character and conduct as an officer and a gentleman” have been called into question. The suspension order took effect from December 12, 2025, and will be reviewed based on the progress of the case.
In response to the suspension, Colonel Mehta has formally challenged the decision through a representation submitted to Army authorities. He is seeking the quashing or withdrawal of the suspension order on the grounds that it contravenes the Suspension Policy of 2006. Additionally, he has requested certified copies of the court of inquiry proceedings and pertinent file notings. Colonel Mehta has also called for a declaration that the hearing conducted on December 5 be deemed invalid, alleging violations of Army Rule 22. He has demanded a fresh and independent reassessment of the inquiry, claiming it rests on assumptions rather than on substantiated evidence.
Army officials have reiterated their commitment to following due process in alignment with established regulations, underscoring that the case remains sub judice under military law. Future actions regarding Colonel Mehta will be contingent upon the outcomes of the ongoing disciplinary proceedings.
