CJI Sanjiv Khanna Submits In-House Inquiry Report on Justice Yashwant Varma to President and Prime Minister

On May 8, 2025, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna forwarded an in-house inquiry report concerning Justice Yashwant Varma to the President and Prime Minister of India.  The report, prepared by a three-judge committee, pertains to the alleged discovery of unauthorized cash currency notes at Justice Varma’s official residence.  Alongside the committee’s findings dated May 3, 2025, Justice Varma’s response dated May 6, 2025, was also submitted. 

According to the Supreme Court’s press release, the forwarding of this report indicates that the allegations have prima facie credibility.  Under the established in-house procedure, if such allegations are found to have substance, the Chief Justice advises the concerned judge to resign or opt for voluntary retirement.  Should the judge decline, the matter is escalated to the President and Prime Minister for potential initiation of removal proceedings under Articles 124(4) and 218 of the Constitution.

The inquiry was initiated following a preliminary report from Delhi High Court Chief Justice DK Upadhyay, who recommended a deeper investigation after a significant amount of cash was reportedly found during a firefighting operation at Justice Varma’s residence.  Subsequently, Justice Varma was transferred to the Allahabad High Court, his parent court, and judicial responsibilities were withdrawn as per the Chief Justice’s directive.

In his defense, Justice Varma denied storing any cash, asserting that the store-room was accessible to staff and unlocked.  He claimed absence from Delhi during the incident and suggested that the allegations were part of a conspiracy to frame him.