Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday accepted a motion signed by 146 MPs seeking the impeachment of Justice Yashwant Varma, from whose official residence a massive stash of cash was recovered earlier this year.
A three-member inquiry panel has been constituted to investigate the allegations. It includes Justice Aravind Kumar of the Supreme Court, Justice Maninder Mohan, Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, and senior advocate BV Acharaya. The committee will submit its report to the Speaker, after which the matter will be placed before the House.
Under Article 124(4) of the Constitution, impeachment requires approval by a two-thirds majority in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. With both the ruling coalition and the opposition supporting the move, the process is expected to proceed smoothly.
Background
The case stems from a March 14 incident when a fire at Justice Varma’s Delhi residence led to the discovery of large stacks of cash—some piled over 1.5 feet high. The judge was later transferred from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court, with all judicial work withdrawn.
Following an in-house Supreme Court inquiry, which examined 55 witnesses, the panel concluded there was “sufficient substance” in the allegations, noting that Justice Varma and his family had “active control” over the room where the cash was found. It recommended his removal.
Justice Varma challenged the inquiry’s findings in the Supreme Court, claiming bias and denial of a fair hearing. However, the apex court rejected his plea, ruling no violation of fundamental rights had occurred.
If the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha both pass the impeachment motion, Justice Varma could be formally removed from office.
