New Delhi (March 26, 2026): In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has granted interim relief to IRS officer Sameer Wankhede in connection with disciplinary proceedings linked to the 2021 Cordelia cruise drug bust case.
Case Background
By NSB.News
The matter stems from disciplinary action initiated against Sameer Wankhede by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs through a chargesheet issued on August 18, 2025.
Wankhede had challenged this action before the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), which, on January 19, quashed the charge memorandum. However, the Centre later approached the Delhi High Court, which set aside the CAT’s order on February 27.
Allegations Against Wankhede
The chargesheet alleged that after his tenure at the Narcotics Control Bureau, Wankhede sought confidential information from NCB’s legal adviser, Japan Babu, and attempted to influence the direction of the investigation toward a predetermined outcome.
It was also noted that The chargesheet was filed three years after the alleged incident Call transcript evidence was submitted two years later
Supreme Court’s Observation
The Supreme Court of India took note of procedural lapses highlighted by Wankhede, especially the appointment of an inquiry officer on March 7 without giving him adequate time to respond to the chargesheet.
Court Directions
The court directed that: Wankhede can file his reply within two weeks
The authorities must then decide within the next two weeks whether to appoint an inquiry officer
The interim relief provides temporary respite to Sameer Wankhede, while the legal battle continues. The case highlights concerns over procedural fairness in disciplinary actions and will be closely watched in the coming weeks.