Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court has officially resigned, submitting his letter to President Droupadi Murmu on April 9, 2026. This move effectively ends the parliamentary inquiry into allegations of financial misconduct that had been looming over him for nearly a year.
The Resignation Letter
In his brief but pointed letter, Justice Varma expressed “deep anguish” regarding the circumstances that led to his departure.
“While I do not propose to burden your august office with the reasons that have constrained me to submit this missive, it is with deep anguish that I hereby tender my resignation… with immediate effect.”
He concluded by noting it was an “honour to serve” in the judiciary.
Timeline of the Controversy
The proceedings against Justice Varma stem from a high-profile incident involving unaccounted wealth:
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March 2025: A fire broke out at Justice Varma’s official residence in Delhi. During the incident, authorities discovered large piles of burnt, unaccounted cash.
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In-House Inquiry: An internal Supreme Court probe found Varma’s explanation for the cash unsatisfactory. Then-CJI Sanjiv Khanna recommended executive action.
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July/August 2025: Removal proceedings were initiated in Parliament. Speaker Om Birla admitted a motion in the Lok Sabha and formed a three-member inquiry committee under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
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February 2026: The inquiry panel was reconstituted due to the retirement of a member, causing a procedural restart.
Legal Implications: Why the Inquiry Stops
Justice Varma’s resignation creates a significant legal pivot. Under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, the statutory mechanism for removal is designed specifically for sitting judges.
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Termination of Proceedings: Because the goal of the parliamentary motion is the “removal” of a judge, the process becomes legally moot once the individual voluntarily vacates the office.
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A Rare Precedent: This marks an abrupt end to one of the few instances in Indian history where impeachment proceedings reached such an advanced stage against a High Court judge.
By stepping down “with immediate effect,” Justice Varma has effectively bypassed the potential for a formal parliamentary vote on his removal, though the cloud of the original allegations remains a part of his judicial legacy.
