⚖️ Justice Varma Moves SC Against Inquiry Report
Allahabad High Court Judge Justice Yashwant Varma has filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court seeking to quash the in‑house inquiry report that found him guilty of possessing large amounts of illicit cash at his Delhi residence.
? Allegations & Inquiry Setup
Following a fire on March 14, 2025, half‑burnt ₹500 notes were found in an outhouse of his official bungalow in Delhi. A three‑member panel, appointed on March 22 by then‑CJI Sanjiv Khanna, concluded in June that Justice Varma had “covert or active control” over the cash. Subsequently, the panel recommended his removal to the Prime Minister and President in early May. 1
? Grounds for Justice Varma’s Challenge
Justice Varma argues the inquiry:
– Was a parallel, administrative process lacking statutory authority under Articles 124 and 218 of the Constitution.
– Was based on presumptions, not verified evidence, without a formal complaint.
– Denied him fair opportunity to respond and reversed the burden of proof.
– Public disclosure via SC press release on March 22 caused undue media trial and damaged his reputation. 2
? Procedural and Constitutional Objections
He asserts that the in‑house system, rooted in a 1999 Full Court resolution, is meant for confidential fact‑finding—not triggering removal motions. Yet, the report became the basis for a recommendation to Parliament, bypassing due process. He also highlights that the former CJI never granted him a personal hearing before forwarding the report—breaking convention. 3
?️ Legal & Political Developments
Justice Varma’s petition seeks quashing of both the inquiry’s findings and the removal recommendation. It challenges the administrative process’s validity ahead of Parliament’s monsoon session, where a removal motion is expected. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has affirmed that impeachment proceedings are Parliament’s prerogative. 4
? Timeline of Key Events
- March 14, 2025: Fire at Justice Varma’s Delhi residence; burnt cash found.
- March 22: Inquiry panel appointed by CJI Sanjiv Khanna.
- May 4: Report and recommendation sent to PM & President.
- June 19: Panel report released proposing impeachment.
- July 18‑19: Justice Varma petitions Supreme Court.
- Late July: Parliament expected to initiate removal proceedings.
? Trivia & Quiz Points
- What event triggered the inquiry? Fire and cash discovery (₹500 notes).
- When was the inquiry panel formed? March 22, 2025.
- On what constitutional articles does Varma contest the procedure? Articles 124 & 218.
- Who recommended his removal? Former CJI Sanjiv Khanna.
- Which body decides impeachment? The Indian Parliament.
✅ What Lies Ahead
The Supreme Court will soon hear the petition. Meanwhile, Parliament gears up for impeachment debates. Justice Varma’s legal challenge raises critical questions about judicial accountability, administrative fairness, and separation of powers in India’s highest courts.
Source: Theprint