Allahabad High Court judge steps down as inquiry and removal proceedings loom
Yashwant Varma has resigned from his post as a judge of the Allahabad High Court, tendering his resignation to Droupadi Murmu amid an ongoing inquiry into an alleged cash recovery case.
In his resignation letter dated April 9, Justice Varma said he was stepping down with “deep anguish,” without elaborating on the reasons behind his decision.
Inquiry and removal proceedings underway
The judge has been facing an in-house probe following allegations linked to the recovery of burnt cash at his residence in New Delhi last year. The case had also triggered the possibility of parliamentary removal proceedings.
Om Birla had reconstituted a three-member committee to examine the grounds for his removal.
Supreme Court rejects plea
Justice Varma had earlier approached the Supreme Court of India challenging the process, arguing that a removal committee should not be formed without approval in both Houses of Parliament.
However, the court dismissed his plea, stating that legal provisions cannot be used to “scuttle parliamentary process” and that constitutional safeguards should not hinder judicial accountability.
Panel continues probe
The reconstituted panel includes senior judicial members tasked with examining the allegations and recommending further action.
The resignation comes even as scrutiny over judicial conduct and accountability remains in focus.
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