#JUSTIN: Huge Cash Stash Discovered at Delhi HC Judge's Residence
Cash in Flames: Justice Verma’s Transfer Sparks Judicial Controversy
On March 20, 2025, the Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, decided to transfer Justice Yashwant Verma from the Delhi High Court back to his parent court, the Allahabad High Court.
This unanimous decision followed the discovery of a significant amount of unaccounted cash at Justice Verma’s official bungalow in Delhi during the Holi vacations. The cash came to light after a fire broke out at the residence on March 14, prompting family members—Justice Verma was out of town—to call emergency services. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, and police, assessing the scene, uncovered the money, escalating the matter through official channels.
The Collegium acted swiftly upon receiving the report, viewing the incident as a potential stain on judicial integrity. Justice Verma, who joined the Allahabad High Court in 2014 before his transfer to Delhi in 2021, has not yet commented on the discovery. While the transfer was agreed upon, some Collegium members argued it was insufficient.
They suggested that resignation might be warranted, given the gravity of the situation and its implications for public trust in the judiciary. If Justice Verma declines to step down, an internal inquiry could be launched, marking the initial step toward possible impeachment by Parliament, as per the Supreme Court’s 1999 guidelines on judicial misconduct.
This rare incident has sparked debate about accountability within India’s judiciary, with critics questioning whether a mere transfer addresses the seriousness of the allegations. As of now, the situation remains fluid, with further developments anticipated.
