New Delhi, May 8, 2025 — Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna has formally forwarded the report of the Supreme Court’s in-house inquiry committee on Justice Yashwant Varma to the President of India and the Prime Minister, along with Justice Varma’s written response to the findings.
Background: Cash Discovery During Residence Fire
The matter arose on March 14, when a fire broke out at the official residence of Justice Yashwant Varma in New Delhi. During firefighting operations, personnel reportedly discovered large quantities of unaccounted cash at the site. Video footage, widely circulated later, showed bundles of currency burning in the flames.At the time of the incident, Justice Varma and his wife were away. Only his daughter and elderly mother were present at the residence.
In-House Committee and Its Findings
An in-house inquiry committee was constituted on March 22 by CJI Khanna, comprising:
- Chief Justice Sheel Nagu (Punjab & Haryana High Court)
- Chief Justice G.S. Sandhawalia (Himachal Pradesh High Court)
- Justice Anu Sivaraman (Karnataka High Court)
The panel examined multiple witnesses, including fire brigade and police personnel, and reviewed photographic evidence of burnt currency bundles.
The report was submitted on May 4, concluding that there was “credence” to the allegations and that Justice Varma was liable in the matter.
Justice Varma’s Response and Recommended Action
Currently serving at the Allahabad High Court, Justice Varma was granted time to respond. In his reply, he denied the presence of any cash at his residence and alleged a conspiracy to defame him.
CJI Khanna reportedly offered him the option to resign. If he does not, the committee has recommended initiation of impeachment proceedings under Article 217 of the Constitution by the President of India.
Procedural Timeline and Implications
CJI Khanna, set to retire on May 13, is believed to be aiming to conclude action in this matter before his demission.The forwarding of both the committee’s findings and Justice Varma’s response to the President marks a critical procedural step.
If Justice Varma refuses to resign, the next step may involve presidential reference to Parliament for impeachment proceedings.
Summary Table: Key Events
| Date | Event |
| March 14 | Fire at Justice Varma’s residence; alleged discovery of unaccounted cash |
| March 22 | In-house inquiry committee constituted by CJI Khanna |
| May 4 | Committee submits report to CJI, finding the allegations credible |
| May 7–8 | CJI forwards report and Justice Varma’s reply to the President of India |
| May 9 | Deadline for Justice Varma’s formal response |
The matter now rests with the President of India, as the judiciary awaits a decision that could potentially set the course for rare impeachment proceedings against a sitting High Court judge.
