Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi Asked by Court to Respond in Assets Case by July 23

The Uttarakhand High Court has directed state Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi to submit a response by July 23, 2025, in a case related to allegations of possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. The directive was issued by a single bench of Justice Vivek Bharti Sharma, who retired shortly after issuing the order.

According to court proceedings, the minister’s legal counsel has been instructed to receive a copy of the petition. The petitioner, Vikesh Negi, a resident of Dehradun, has also been asked to be ready to file a rejoinder once the minister’s response is submitted.

Following the retirement of Justice Sharma, the case will now be heard by another single bench judge.

Allegations of Misuse of Public Funds

The petition alleges that Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi misused public funds, particularly during his foreign visits in the name of promoting organic farming and horticulture. The petition also raises concerns regarding irregularities in the construction of the Sainya Dham, a military shrine being built in the state.

The matter gained momentum after disclosures made in Joshi’s 2022 election affidavit, which listed his total public assets at around ₹9 crore. The petitioner contends that the increase in the minister’s wealth and property warrants a detailed investigation under relevant anti-corruption and public accountability laws.

Legal Process Ahead

The court has now initiated formal proceedings by asking the minister to present his side of the case. Meanwhile, petitioner Vikesh Negi has been given the liberty to counter the minister’s reply once submitted. The court emphasized the importance of due process and has taken cognizance of the serious nature of the allegations.

With the minister being a sitting member of the Uttarakhand Cabinet, the outcome of this case may have significant political implications. The next hearing will likely take place before a new single-judge bench, post the retirement of Justice Sharma.

Background:
Ganesh Joshi is a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and currently serves as the Minister of Agriculture, Horticulture, and Soldier Welfare in the Uttarakhand government.