Is Cash Found at a Judge's Residence? CJI Submits Probe Report to President and PM
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Synopsis
In a significant legal development, CJI Sanjiv Khanna has forwarded an investigation report regarding cash allegations against Justice Yashwant Verma to top government officials. This case raises questions about judicial integrity. What will be the implications of these findings?
Key Takeaways
- CJI Sanjiv Khanna has submitted an inquiry report to the President and PM.
- Allegations involve Justice Yashwant Verma and cash discovery.
- The inquiry aims to uphold judicial integrity.
- A committee of three judges is tasked with the investigation.
- Justice Verma has denied any allegations of misconduct.
New Delhi, May 8 (NationPress) Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, who is set to retire next week, has submitted to both the President and the Prime Minister the findings from the court-appointed "in-house" investigation panel. This panel was established in light of allegations concerning the discovery of cash linked to the former Delhi High Court judge, Justice Yashwant Verma.
The Supreme Court's statement revealed, "CJI Khanna, in accordance with the In-House Procedure, has communicated with the Hon’ble President of India and the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, enclosing a copy of the report generated by the 3-Member Committee dated 03.05.2025 along with a response letter from Mr. Justice Yashwant Varma dated 06.05.2025."
Justice Varma is currently at the center of a scandal involving a large quantity of burnt cash allegedly found in the storeroom of his residence in the capital following a fire incident on March 14. Shortly after, the Union government approved his transfer from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court amidst the ongoing inquiry.
The CJI Khanna-led Supreme Court Collegium recommended that the Centre facilitate Justice Varma’s repatriation to the Allahabad High Court. They indicated that this transfer, placing him as the ninth in seniority at his parent court, is "independent and separate from the In-house enquiry procedure."
Before his reassignment to the Allahabad HC, Justice Varma was relieved of his judicial duties. His move to Uttar Pradesh faced backlash from legal associations in both Lucknow and Allahabad. Although Justice Varma has denied any misconduct, CJI Khanna initiated a 3-member committee inquiry in late March, which includes Justice Sheel Nagu, Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice G.S. Sandhawalia, Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court, and Justice Anu Sivaraman, a judge of Karnataka High Court.
Point of View
This situation underscores the importance of transparency within the judiciary. The ongoing inquiry reflects a commitment to uphold the rule of law and maintain public trust. It's crucial that all allegations are thoroughly investigated to ensure accountability and preserve the integrity of our legal institutions.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the in-house inquiry into Justice Yashwant Verma?
The inquiry was initiated following allegations of a significant amount of burnt cash being discovered at Justice Verma's residence.
Who are the members of the inquiry committee?
The committee comprises Justice Sheel Nagu, Justice G.S. Sandhawalia, and Justice Anu Sivaraman.
What has been the response of Justice Verma regarding the allegations?
Justice Verma has denied any wrongdoing associated with the cash discovery allegations.
What is the significance of this case?
This case highlights concerns about judicial integrity and the measures being taken to address them.
How does this situation affect public trust in the judiciary?
The ongoing inquiry and transparency in handling such allegations are essential in maintaining public confidence in the judicial system.
