The Supreme Court Collegium has decided to transfer Justice Yashwant Verma from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court. Sources indicate that this decision follows the recent discovery of a substantial amount of unaccounted cash at his official residence during the Holi holidays.
The cash was reportedly found after a fire broke out at the judge’s bungalow. With Justice Verma out of town, his family members contacted emergency services, who then informed the police. As the matter escalated through official channels, the Collegium, led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, took cognizance of the issue and agreed unanimously on his transfer.
Justice Verma has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident. However, sources suggest that the Chief Justice viewed the situation with utmost seriousness. While the Collegium decided on a transfer, some members felt that stricter measures were necessary to uphold the judiciary’s integrity. There were discussions about asking Justice Verma to resign, and if he declined, an internal inquiry could be initiated. This inquiry would be the first step in a process that could potentially lead to his removal by Parliament.
How Can a High Court Judge Be Removed?
The Supreme Court, in a 1999 ruling, established procedures for handling allegations of corruption, misconduct, or judicial impropriety against judges of constitutional courts.
If a complaint is received, the Chief Justice first seeks an explanation from the concerned judge. If the response is unsatisfactory or the matter appears serious, the Chief Justice forms an internal committee comprising one Supreme Court judge and two High Court Chief Justices to conduct an investigation.
Once the committee submits its findings, and if the misconduct is deemed severe, the Chief Justice may request the judge’s resignation. Should the judge refuse, the Chief Justice can then formally request the government to initiate the process of removal under Article 124(4) of the Constitution, which involves parliamentary proceedings.
