New Delhi: Justice Yashwant Varma has resigned from his position as a judge of the Allahabad High Court, more than a year after a large stash of cash was recovered from his official residence in Delhi. His resignation comes as impeachment proceedings against him gathered momentum, with over 140 members of the Lok Sabha supporting a motion seeking his removal.
The resignation, dated April 9, has been submitted to the President of India. Notably, the letter does not specify the reasons for stepping down.
Resignation letter cites “deep anguish”
In his communication to the President, Justice Varma stated, “While I do not propose to burden your august office with the reasons which have constrained me to submit this missive, it is with deep anguish that I hereby tender my resignation from the office of Judge of Hon’ble High Court of Judicature at Allahabad, with immediate effect.”
He had taken oath as a judge of the Allahabad High Court on April 5, 2025. His sudden resignation, without elaboration, has drawn attention given the serious allegations and ongoing proceedings against him.
Impeachment process gains traction
The development comes amid increasing political and legal pressure, as impeachment proceedings against Justice Varma were gaining pace in Parliament. More than 140 Lok Sabha members had reportedly backed a motion seeking his removal, signalling rare bipartisan concern over the allegations.
With his resignation, the impeachment process may no longer proceed in the same manner, as he ceases to hold constitutional office.
Cash recovery case triggered controversy
The controversy dates back to March 14, 2025, when a large amount of cash was recovered from Justice Varma’s official residence in Lutyens’ Delhi. At the time, he was serving as a judge of the Delhi High Court.
Reports indicated that partially burnt cash was found in a storeroom near the servants’ quarters. Justice Varma and his wife were reportedly in Bhopal when the recovery was made.
The incident raised serious questions about judicial integrity and prompted immediate administrative action. Subsequently, judicial work was withdrawn from him at the Delhi High Court.
Denial of allegations
Justice Varma had denied all allegations related to the cash recovery. He maintained that neither he nor his family had stored any money in the storeroom and emphasised that the area was accessible to multiple individuals.
Despite his denial, the case continued to attract scrutiny from both judicial and political quarters, eventually leading to calls for impeachment.
Legal implications after resignation
Following his resignation, Justice Varma is understood to lose the constitutional protections and immunity granted to sitting judges. Legal experts note that this could pave the way for criminal proceedings, including the possibility of registration of a case and further investigation.
Authorities may now proceed with greater latitude in examining the circumstances surrounding the cash recovery.
Conclusion
The resignation of Justice Yashwant Varma marks a significant development in a case that has raised serious concerns about accountability within the judiciary. While his departure may halt impeachment proceedings, it opens the door for further legal action. The case is likely to remain under close watch as authorities determine the next course of action in ensuring transparency and upholding the rule of law.