Supreme Court Queries Justice Varma on In-House Inquiry Amid Cash Controversy

The Supreme Court questioned Justice Yashwant Varma about his participation in an in-house inquiry panel probing cash found at his residence after a fire. Justice Varma challenged the inquiry process post-conclusion, prompting the court's inquiry on his actions. The case is rescheduled for further hearing.

The Supreme Court on Monday critically examined the involvement of Allahabad High Court judge, Justice Yashwant Varma, with an in-house inquiry panel. This panel inquiry led to the initiation of impeachment proceedings after charred cash was discovered at his home following a fire incident in Delhi.

Justice Varma's representation by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal was questioned by a bench comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Augustine George Masih. They asked why Justice Varma, despite believing the inquiry unconstitutional, chose appearance before this panel, and why objections are raised only post-proceedings.

In his defence, Sibal emphasized Justice Varma's hope that the inquiry would reveal the cash's ownership. He criticized the Chief Justice's decision to publicize the incident and argued that accusations have been prematurely discussed in public domains, without following constitutional protocols.

While Sibal contested further proceeding with impeachment before establishing cash's ownership, the Supreme Court clarified it could not base arguments on the in-house report unless submitted formally. Justice Varma's plea, arguing unfair treatment in the inquiry, is to be further deliberated on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies.)