Justice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Ongoing Lok Sabha Inquiry Over Cash Controversy

Justice Yashwant Varma’s resignation as a judge of the Allahabad High Court comes amid ongoing inquiry proceedings initiated by the Lok Sabha in connection with a serious controversy involving alleged unaccounted cash found at his residence.

Justice Varma submitted his resignation to the President of India, stating, “It is with deep anguish that I tender my resignation from the office of Judge of the Hon’ble High Court of Judicature at Allahabad with immediate effect”. A copy was also addressed to the Chief Justice of India.

In his letter, he chose not to elaborate on the reasons behind his decision. He noted that he did not wish to burden the office of the President with explanations and expressed that serving as a judge had been an honour.

The resignation comes at a time when a formal inquiry by a committee constituted under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968 is still underway. This committee was formed following an impeachment motion supported by 146 Members of Parliament in the Lok Sabha.

The controversy traces back to March 14, 2025, when a large quantity of currency was reportedly discovered at an outhouse within Justice Varma’s official residence during a fire-fighting operation. The incident triggered widespread public concern and scrutiny.

Following the incident, an in-house inquiry committee was set up by the then Chief Justice of India. The committee examined the circumstances and submitted its findings, which reportedly indicated prima facie culpability on the part of Justice Varma.

Subsequently, the matter was escalated to the executive, with the report being forwarded to the President and the Prime Minister. Justice Varma had earlier declined to resign despite advice from the Chief Justice of India.

In parallel, administrative actions were taken, including his transfer back to the Allahabad High Court and withdrawal of judicial work pending the outcome of proceedings. The Supreme Court also took a step towards transparency by placing relevant materials, including images and videos, in the public domain.

Justice Varma approached the Supreme Court challenging both the in-house inquiry and the recommendation for his removal. These challenges were dismissed. A later plea questioning the constitution of the parliamentary inquiry committee also met the same fate.

His resignation now brings a significant development in a matter that has drawn attention to judicial accountability mechanisms and institutional processes governing allegations against members of the higher judiciary.