Resignation of Justice Yashwant Varma | 13 Apr 2026

Why in News?

Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court has submitted his resignation to the President of India under Article 217(1)(a) of the Constitution. This development follows a high-profile "cash-at-home" controversy and the initiation of a formal impeachment process in Parliament.

Key Points: 

• Background of Controversy: In March 2025, a fire at Justice Varma’s Delhi residence led to the discovery of substantial amounts of unaccounted cash. 
  • Inquiry Initiation: Following a prima facie report by a Supreme Court in-house committee, 146 MPs moved a motion for his removal under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. 
• Constitutional and Legal Framework: Under Article 217(1)(b), a High Court judge can only be removed by the President following an address by both Houses of Parliament on grounds of "proved misbehaviour" or "incapacity." 
  • The Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968: This Act regulates the procedure for the investigation and proof of the misbehaviour of a judge. 
• Implications of the Resignation:By resigning before the parliamentary vote, the formal impeachment process effectively becomes infructuous. 
  • Post-Retirement Benefits: A voluntary resignation, as opposed to a formal removal, generally allows a judge to retain pensionary and other post-retirement benefits.