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Lok Sabha panel concludes probe into Justice Yashwant Varma after resignation
A Lok Sabha inquiry panel formally concluded its proceedings into allegations of unaccounted cash at Justice Yashwant Varma’s Delhi residence after his resignation on April 9, 2026, and forwarded its report to the Lok Sabha. The panel had conducted in-camera hearings and was nearing a defence phase when Varma stepped down, ending the impeachment process.
Why It Matters
The ending of parliamentary impeachment proceedings follows Justice Varma’s resignation, highlighting the interplay between parliamentary oversight and judicial accountability. It leaves room for potential criminal avenues while halting the impeachment process against a demitted-officer.
Timeline
10 Events
Panel concludes proceedings and transmits report to Lok Sabha
April 21, 2026
The three-member panel formally concluded its proceedings on Tuesday, declared no further proceedings were required due to Varma’s resignation, and transmitted its report to the Lok Sabha.
Defence schedule before the inquiry committee
April 10, 2026
Varma was scheduled to begin advancing his defence before the inquiry committee between April 10 and April 14, 2026, as the proceedings continued.
Justice Varma resigns from office
April 9, 2026
Justice Varma tendered his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu on April 9, 2026, stating it was done with deep anguish.
Panel reconstituted due to retirement of a member
February 2026
The three-member panel was reconstituted in February 2026 following the retirement of one member.
Justice Varma appears before the committee
January 24, 2026
Following the Supreme Court order, Justice Varma appeared before the inquiry committee on January 24, 2026; hearings were conducted in-camera.
Supreme Court clears the way for the inquiry
January 2026
The Supreme Court, in January 2026, cleared the way for the inquiry to proceed, rejecting Varma’s legal challenge and affirming procedural safeguards under the Act.
Lok Sabha admits motion against Justice Varma
August 2025
The Lok Sabha admitted a motion in August 2025 seeking Justice Varma’s removal, triggering a formal inquiry under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
Rajya Sabha declines to admit parallel motion
July 2025
The Rajya Sabha declined to admit a parallel impeachment motion, limiting the proceedings to the Lok Sabha track.
Removal motions introduced in Parliament
July 2025
Removal motions were introduced in both Houses of Parliament, initiating impeachment proceedings against Justice Varma.
Fire incident at Justice Varma's Delhi residence and discovery of burnt cash
March 2025
Allegations arose from a fire at Justice Yashwant Varma's official Delhi residence, where burnt wads of unaccounted cash were reportedly discovered, triggering a formal inquiry.