Indian Army Suspends Colonel Ashish Singh Mehta Amid Disciplinary Charges
The Indian Army has taken disciplinary action against Colonel Ashish Singh Mehta, suspending him from his duties for 90 days. This move comes after an inquiry found him facing 12 charges of irregularities under the Army Act, as confirmed by officials. Colonel Mehta, who commanded the 16th Battalion of the Jat Regiment, was subjected to a hearing at the Rajputana Rifles Regimental Centre, leading to his suspension order being issued by Brigadier Raman Sharma, Commandant of the Regimental Centre.
Details from the investigation reveal that Colonel Mehta is accused of violating several aspects of military law. Specifically, he is charged with 10 violations under Section 63 of the Army Act, which pertains to acts prejudicial to good order and military discipline. Additionally, he faces two charges under Section 45, which relates to conduct unbecoming of an officer. One of the allegations involves the officer's attempts to shield a jawan under investigation by the Delhi Area Provost Unit.
Senior Army commanders had previously directed disciplinary actions, and a formal hearing on December 5, 2025, resulted in a summary of evidence being recorded. The suspension, effective from December 12, 2025, cited the severity of the alleged misconduct as impugning Colonel Mehta’s “character and conduct as an officer and a gentleman.” The suspension is governed by Paragraph 349 of the Regulations for the Army, 1987, and is subject to review based on further developments in the case.
Colonel Mehta has contested the suspension by filing a representation with Army authorities. He has requested the suspension order be annulled, arguing it contravenes the Suspension Policy of 2006. Furthermore, he seeks certified documentation of the court of inquiry proceedings and related notes, and he challenges the validity of the December 5 hearing, alleging it breached Army Rule 22. Colonel Mehta also demands a new, independent review of the court of inquiry, criticizing it for being based on assumptions rather than solid evidence.
The Army has asserted that all protocols are being adhered to in alignment with current regulations, and the case remains under military legal proceedings. The final outcome of the disciplinary actions will depend on the results of these ongoing proceedings.
