Massive cash recovery at judge’s residence sparks judicial shake-up
A fire that broke out at the official residence of Justice Yashwant Varma of the Delhi High Court has led to a significant development in India’s judiciary.In an emergency meeting on March 20, the Supreme Court Collegium decided to transfer Justice Varma to his parent High Court in Allahabad after a huge stash of unaccounted cash was discovered in his bungalow.
Details of the incident
On the night of March 14 at around 11:30 PM, a fire was reported at Justice Varma’s bungalow on Tughlak Road in New Delhi. With Justice Varma out of town, his family alerted the Delhi Fire Service and police. Once the fire was extinguished, first responders discovered large amounts of cash in one of the rooms.
The incident was officially recorded, and the Delhi Police informed the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The MHA subsequently forwarded its report to the Chief Justice of India (CJI), Sanjiv Khanna, prompting immediate action.
Collegium’s response and transfer decision
According to sources, the CJI took a serious view of the matter and convened an emergency meeting of the Supreme Court Collegium, which unanimously recommended Justice Varma’s transfer.
Justice Varma, who was transferred from Allahabad to the Delhi High Court in October 2021, will now return to his former post.
However, the Collegium is also considering further action. Some members believe a mere transfer is inadequate, given the seriousness of the discovery. They have called for Justice Varma to be asked to resign, and if he declines, they support initiating an in-house inquiry as a precursor to potential impeachment proceedings.
Possible disciplinary action under judicial protocol
The Supreme Court’s in-house procedure, established in 1999, provides a framework for dealing with complaints of corruption or misconduct against judges of constitutional courts.
Under these guidelines:
- The CJI first seeks a response from the judge concerned.
- If the response is unsatisfactory or if the matter warrants deeper scrutiny, the CJI may constitute an internal committee.
- This committee includes a Supreme Court judge and two Chief Justices of High Courts.
- If the committee finds the misconduct to be grave, it may recommend that the judge resign. If the judge refuses, Parliamentary proceedings for removal may be initiated.
Repercussions within the judiciary
The incident has sent shockwaves through the judicial system, raising serious concerns about judicial accountability. Sources indicated that the adverse reports received from the MHA and other authorities played a crucial role in the swift action taken by the Collegium.
With calls growing for greater transparency and integrity, Justice Varma’s transfer may be just the beginning of a broader process that could include formal investigation and disciplinary action.
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
- Hafiz Saeed’s key role in the Pahalgam terror attack exposed - April 25, 2025
- Pahalgam terror attack linked to Pakistan army chief’s remarks, says ex-Pentagon official Michael Rubin - April 24, 2025
- Pahalgam terror attack: Five militants identified as India links plot to Pakistan-based LeT network - April 24, 2025
Strange !! who selected cannot remove him
Parents who concieved a baby, still in womb can terminate pregnancy
Indian constitution is like that…..
Judge can send a criminal to death
But Judge caught in criminal act of amassing wealth through corrupt means, cannot be removed from position !! forget about punishment …. judge will retire, take pension, enjoy retirement life…… with illgotten money….. people & citizens will continue to look at him with zealous eyes
pappu says, BJP is changing constitution of India….. nothing changed, corrupt are still corrupt and life goes on & on & on
Sree Iyer unwantedly blames grandma Nancy Pelosi i.e. Swamy blames Modi !!