New Delhi, March 22, 2025 – Amidst escalating controversy surrounding allegations of huge sums of cash found at the residence of Justice Yashwant Varma, a sitting judge of the Delhi High Court, the Supreme Court has formed a high-level three-judge committee to investigate the matter thoroughly.
In an official press release dated March 22, 2025, the Chief Justice of India constituted a committee comprising three senior judges from various High Courts to examine the allegations meticulously. The committee includes:
–Justice Sheel Nagu, Chief Justice, Punjab & Haryana High Court
-Justice G.S. Sandhawalia, Chief Justice, Himachal Pradesh High Court
-Justice Anu Sivaraman, Judge, Karnataka High Court
Background of the Allegations
Justice Varma came under scrutiny after police reportedly recovered a substantial amount of unaccounted cash from his residence during a firefighting job. The discovery led to widespread debate within legal circles and intense scrutiny of judicial propriety.
Judicial Work Suspended Temporarily
Pending the outcome of the inquiry, the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court has been instructed not to allocate any judicial assignments to Justice Yashwant Varma. This measure is intended to safeguard the judiciary’s independence and credibility, ensuring that justice is delivered impartially and transparently during the investigation period.
Transparency Measures and Document Release
The Supreme Court has emphasized transparency in handling this sensitive issue. Reports submitted by the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, the response provided by Justice Varma, and other relevant documents have been uploaded to the Supreme Court’s official website, available for public scrutiny.
Next Steps and Possible Outcomes
The inquiry committee is expected to initiate proceedings shortly, thoroughly examining financial documents, statements, and evidence submitted by involved parties. Depending on the outcome, further actions could range from disciplinary measures to potential recommendations for impeachment proceedings if substantial misconduct is proven.
This decisive step by the Supreme Court highlights its commitment to transparency and integrity, affirming that judicial accountability remains paramount in maintaining public trust and institutional integrity.
