Cash Discovery Row: Justice Varma Faces Impeachment Threat After CJI Forwards Inquiry Report to President.

Introduction

In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through India’s judicial corridors, Justice Varma, a sitting judge of the Supreme Court, now faces the very real prospect of impeachment. This follows the Chief Justice of India (CJI) forwarding the findings of an internal inquiry committee to the President of India, detailing serious allegations linked to the cash discovery controversy.

The Cash Discovery Scandal: What We Know So Far

The controversy erupted when significant amounts of unaccounted cash were allegedly discovered at premises linked to Justice Varma. While details remain closely guarded due to the sensitivity of the matter, the whispers in legal and political circles grew too loud to ignore. What began as a seemingly isolated incident has now escalated into one of the most serious judicial integrity crises in recent memory.

CJI’s Move: A Constitutional Trigger

Under Article 124(4) of the Indian Constitution, a Supreme Court judge can be impeached only after proven misbehavior or incapacity, through a detailed procedure involving both Houses of Parliament. However, before it reaches that stage, an inquiry panel—comprising senior judges—must establish prima facie evidence of wrongdoing.

Now that the CJI has formally sent the panel’s report to the President, the process of impeachment could be officially set in motion. This step indicates that the committee may have found sufficient evidence to warrant serious action.

Why This Matters: Judicial Accountability Under the Scanner

India’s judiciary has long been seen as the last bastion of integrity. An impeachment of a Supreme Court judge is a rare and serious affair. The last major impeachment attempt was against Justice Soumitra Sen in 2011, who resigned before the process could be completed. If proceedings go ahead in Justice Varma’s case, it would mark an unprecedented moment in Indian legal history.

Legal Experts React

Constitutional experts are divided. While some argue that this is a necessary step to maintain public trust in the judiciary, others warn about the dangers of politicizing the judiciary. “Impeachment must remain the last resort, not a tool of vendetta,” said a senior advocate on condition of anonymity.

What Happens Next?

The President will now examine the report and, if satisfied, can recommend further steps. This could include notifying Parliament, where a motion for impeachment can be introduced. The process requires a two-thirds majority in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to pass—making it a high-stakes political and constitutional exercise.

Conclusion

The Justice Varma cash discovery row has ignited a national debate on judicial integrity, transparency, and constitutional responsibility. As the story unfolds, the nation watches with bated breath. Will this be a landmark step in cleansing the system, or will it open up a Pandora's box of questions about power, privilege, and accountability?