The judiciary is often regarded as the pillar of democracy — the ultimate guardian of justice and constitutional morality. In such a system, any allegations against a sitting High Court judge not only raise serious concerns about individual conduct but also bring the institution’s transparency and credibility into sharp focus.
The recent decision by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud to constitute an inquiry committee against Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma following allegations of corruption, and to relieve him from all judicial duties until the investigation is complete, signals a bold and necessary step toward reinforcing judicial accountability.
This move is more than just procedural—it is a message. A message that no one, regardless of rank or robe, is above scrutiny. It is also a moment of reckoning for the judiciary, which has often been criticized for lacking internal transparency or taking disciplinary matters lightly. In this case, the Chief Justice’s prompt action reflects a firm commitment to uphold the dignity of the institution.
The decision follows the in-house procedure mechanism developed by the Supreme Court to handle such allegations internally, often involving a panel of senior judges to conduct a confidential and impartial probe. If the charges are found to be substantial, the report may then be forwarded to the President of India, setting the stage for further constitutional proceedings under Articles 124 or 217.
Although the inquiry is at a preliminary stage, the fact that Justice Varma has been divested of all judicial responsibilities during the process maintains the sanctity of ongoing cases and upholds the principle of judicial propriety.
This episode sends out three key messages:
- Accountability is Non-Negotiable: Regardless of position, every judge is answerable to the law and to the people.
- Institutional Integrity Matters: The judiciary must act swiftly and decisively to preserve public faith.
- Transparency Builds Trust: When the judiciary acts against its own, it earns deeper public respect, not disdain.
India’s democracy thrives on the strength of its institutions, and the judiciary has long been its most respected and trusted pillar. But respect is earned not just through judgments — it is earned through integrity, introspection, and an unwavering commitment to justice, even within.
Whether Justice Varma is ultimately found guilty or not is a matter for the inquiry to decide. But this moment has already served as a crucial reminder — that the judiciary must not only deliver justice but also be seen as just, within and without
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This editorial is published in the ITDC News digital edition, as part of our continued commitment to exploring justice, governance, and institutional integrity in contemporary India.
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