What Did the Supreme Court's In-House Panel Discover About Cash at a Judge's Residence?
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Synopsis
A Supreme Court panel has submitted its findings regarding Justice Yashwant Verma's alleged cash discovery. As the controversy unfolds, what does this mean for the integrity of the judiciary?
Key Takeaways
- Supreme Court's inquiry into Justice Verma's allegations is underway.
- Cash discovery adds complexity to the judge's career.
- The panel's report has been submitted to the CJI.
- Justice Varma's transfer is separate from the inquiry.
- Legal community shows concern over the situation.
New Delhi, May 5 (NationPress) The enquiry committee appointed by the Supreme Court to investigate the allegations surrounding the discovery of cash related to Justice Yashwant Verma has presented its findings to the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna.
Formerly a judge at the Delhi High Court, Justice Verma is currently involved in a scandal after a significant amount of burnt cash was reportedly discovered in the storeroom of his residence following a fire incident on March 14.
The three-member committee, which includes Mr. Justice Sheel Nagu, Chief Justice of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana, Mr. Justice G.S. Sandhawalia, Chief Justice of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh, and Ms. Justice Anu Sivaraman, Judge of the High Court of Karnataka, was tasked with investigating the allegations against Justice Yashwant Varma. The committee submitted its report dated May 3, 2025, to the CJI on May 4, 2025, as stated in a press release from the apex court.
Justice Varma's transfer from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court amid an ongoing in-house investigation was sanctioned by the Union government on March 28.
Previously, the CJI Khanna-led Supreme Court Collegium had recommended that the Centre return Justice Varma to the Allahabad High Court. They clarified that the transfer proposal, which places Justice Varma, the second senior-most judge of the Delhi High Court, at ninth in seniority in his home court, is distinct and separate from the ongoing in-house inquiry.
Before his transfer to the Allahabad High Court, Justice Varma was removed from his judicial responsibilities. His move to Uttar Pradesh proceeded despite opposition from the bar associations in Lucknow and Allahabad. Although Justice Varma has denied any misconduct, CJI Khanna established a three-member committee in late March to carry out the in-house investigation.
Point of View
It is essential to maintain an unbiased perspective. The ongoing inquiry into Justice Yashwant Verma underscores the necessity for transparency and integrity within the judiciary. While allegations are serious, due process must be honored to uphold justice.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the inquiry into Justice Yashwant Verma?
The Supreme Court's inquiry committee has submitted its report to the Chief Justice of India, indicating that the investigation is progressing.
What were the allegations against Justice Verma?
Justice Verma is implicated in a scandal involving the discovery of a substantial amount of burnt cash at his residence after a fire incident.
What actions were taken regarding Justice Varma's position?
Justice Varma was transferred from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court amid the ongoing inquiry.
Who is on the inquiry committee?
The committee consists of three judges, including Chief Justices from Punjab and Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and a judge from Karnataka.
How has the legal community reacted?
There has been notable opposition from bar associations in Lucknow and Allahabad regarding Justice Varma's transfer.
