Lok Sabha Speaker Reconstitutes Panel Probing Cash Row Against Justice Yashwant Varma
Three-member inquiry committee to continue impeachment process
Burnt cash recovery at judge’s residence triggered investigation
By Legal Reporter
New Delhi: February 26, 2026:
In a major development in the ongoing cash row involving Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has reconstituted the three-member inquiry committee tasked with examining the grounds for his removal. The move comes after burnt bundles of cash were recovered from Justice Varma’s official residence in March 2025, sparking widespread controversy and demands for accountability.
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The Speaker’s decision, announced on February 25, 2026, ensures continuity in the impeachment process that was set in motion last year following a multi-party notice seeking Justice Varma’s removal. The reconstitution was necessitated due to retirement of one of the committee members and to strengthen the probe into allegations of corruption.
Background of the Case
- In March 2025, burnt wads of cash were reportedly discovered at Justice Varma’s residence in New Delhi.
- The incident triggered a political and legal storm, with multiple parties submitting a notice to the Lok Sabha Speaker seeking his removal.
- On August 12, 2025, Speaker Om Birla constituted a three-member committee to investigate the allegations.
- The impeachment process was formally initiated, marking one of the rare instances of such proceedings against a sitting High Court judge.
- The Supreme Court later dismissed Justice Varma’s petition to halt the impeachment proceedings, clearing the way for the inquiry to continue.
Details of the Reconstituted Panel
- The panel has been reconstituted due to the retirement of Madras High Court Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, one of its original members.
- The new committee will come into effect from March 6, 2026, as per the Lok Sabha notification.
- It will continue examining the allegations, circumstances of the cash recovery, and grounds for Justice Varma’s removal.
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Court and Political Observations
- Judicial accountability: The case highlights the rare but significant constitutional process of impeachment of judges.
- Public trust: The recovery of cash has raised serious concerns about integrity in the judiciary.
- Parliamentary oversight: The Speaker’s role in reconstituting the panel underscores the importance of legislative checks on judicial misconduct.
Why This Case Matters
- For judiciary: It is a test of accountability mechanisms for judges under the Constitution.
- For Parliament: Demonstrates the seriousness with which allegations against judges are treated.
- For citizens: Reinforces the principle that no public official is above scrutiny.
Expert Views
Legal experts have noted that the reconstitution of the panel ensures continuity in the impeachment process.
- Constitutional lawyers argue that the case will set a precedent for handling allegations of corruption against members of the higher judiciary.
- Political analysts emphasize that the Speaker’s proactive role reflects Parliament’s commitment to uphold judicial integrity.
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Broader Implications
- Strengthened accountability: The case may lead to stricter standards of transparency for judges.
- Public confidence: Ensures that allegations of misconduct are investigated thoroughly.
- Legal precedent: Could shape future impeachment proceedings against members of the judiciary.
Conclusion
The reconstitution of the inquiry panel probing charges against Justice Yashwant Varma marks a critical step in India’s judicial accountability framework. With burnt cash recovery at the heart of the controversy, the case has already triggered impeachment proceedings—an extraordinary constitutional measure.
The Lok Sabha Speaker’s decision ensures that the investigation continues without disruption, reinforcing the principle that judicial integrity is non-negotiable.
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