Mon Mar 24 14:08:00 UTC 2025: ## Top Lawyer Calls for Forensic Probe into Judge’s “Cash-at-Home” Scandal, Reform of Judicial Discipline
**New Delhi** – Prominent lawyer and former Attorney General of India, Mukul Rohatgi, has demanded a thorough forensic investigation into the ongoing controversy surrounding Delhi High Court Judge Yashwant Varma, whose home was the scene of a fire and the subsequent discovery of partially burnt cash. Rohatgi criticized the Supreme Court’s decision to order an internal investigation, stating that a police and forensic investigation is crucial, involving analysis of CCTV footage and other evidence.
The incident, which involved the recovery of partially burnt currency notes from Justice Varma’s residence on March 14th, has sparked widespread concern and calls for accountability within the judiciary. Rohatgi described the situation as a “huge dent in the heart of the judicial dispensation system,” emphasizing the need for swift action if the judge is found guilty.
He also highlighted the inadequacy of the current impeachment process for disciplining judges, noting that in 75 years, no judge has been successfully impeached despite several attempts. Rohatgi advocated for a streamlined disciplinary system to ensure accountability and address public concerns.
The Supreme Court’s recent decision to transfer Justice Varma back to the Allahabad High Court, his previous posting, has also drawn criticism. Rohatgi, along with former Solicitor General Harish Salve, questioned the court’s assertion that the transfer was unrelated to the cash discovery. Salve argued that any transfer should be halted until a full investigation is completed.
Rohatgi further criticized the collegium system for judicial appointments, calling it “absolutely unsatisfactory and opaque.” He suggested incorporating external members into the selection process to enhance transparency and accountability. The debate over judicial appointments and disciplinary procedures, he said, requires urgent reconsideration.
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