CJI Recommends Impeachment of Judge Following Cash Discovery Controversy

Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has recommended the impeachment of Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma, following his implication in a controversy concerning the discovery of cash. The Supreme Court-appointed panel found serious misconduct, prompting CJI Khanna to address the matter with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi through an official communication.

The recommendation comes in light of an established in-house procedure that mandates communication between the CJI, the President, and the Prime Minister when a judge refuses to resign despite evidence of misconduct. Justice Varma has continuously denied the allegations, which were initially brought to light by a news report.

The panel's report, finalized on May 3, details evidence and testimonies, including those from Delhi's Police Commissioner and first responders to a fire incident at Justice Varma's residence. With Justice Varma's transfer to Allahabad High Court devoid of judicial work, the CJI's latest move underlines the judiciary's commitment to transparency and accountability.

(With inputs from agencies.)