The Supreme Court Collegium has decided to transfer Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Verma back to the Allahabad High Court after a large amount of unaccounted cash was found in his official residence last week, sources said.
The decision, taken unanimously by the five-member Collegium led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, comes after emergency responders discovered the money while responding to a fire at Justice Verma's government bungalow during Holi vacations. The judge was reportedly not in the city at the time, and the matter was escalated through official channels, eventually reaching the Collegium.
Justice Verma is yet to issue a statement on the matter.
Sources indicated that while the transfer was the immediate action taken, some Collegium members felt that stricter measures might be required to uphold the judiciary&rsquo;s integrity. There was also discussion about asking Justice Verma to resign. If he refuses, an internal inquiry could be initiated, which may lead to proceedings for his removal by Parliament under Article 124(4) of the Constitution.
As per guidelines set by the Supreme Court in 1999, allegations of judicial misconduct are first reviewed by the Chief Justice, who may then form a committee comprising one Supreme Court judge and two High Court Chief Justices. If serious misconduct is found, the judge may be asked to resign or face removal proceedings initiated by the government.
The discovery of unaccounted cash at a sitting High Court judge&rsquo;s residence has raised concerns about judicial accountability and transparency.&nbsp;

The decision of the five-member Collegium CJI Sanjiv Khanna was unanimous

SC Collegium moves Justice Verma after stash discovery during accidental fire, stricter action under discussion.

Judge Transferred After Cash Found at Home

SC Collegium moves Justice Verma after stash discovery during accidental fire, stricter action under discussion.

March 21, 2025 | 10:43 IST