Vice‑President Jagdeep Dhankhar has called for a thorough criminal investigation following the discovery of a substantial amount of cash at the official residence of a High Court judge. Addressing students and faculty at the National University of Advanced Legal Studies in Kochi on 7 July 2025, he warned that the judiciary’s credibility is at stake and urged authorities to register an FIR immediately.
Dhankhar described the incident as akin to the “Ides of March,” referring to the night of 14–15 March when large sums of cash were discovered in Justice Yashwant Varma’s official quarters following a fire. He criticised the delay in both revealing the discovery and initiating legal proceedings, citing anxiety that the judiciary’s foundations are “tottering” due to this lapse.
Expressing deep concern, he asked whether the money was “tainted,” questioned its origin, and demanded clarity on ownership. He emphasised that “several penal provisions are violated” and urged investigators to “go to the root of the matter”.
Dhankhar also pointed to legal constraints preventing the registration of FIRs against sitting judges without prior judicial approval, noting that a Supreme Court judgment from the early 1990s restricts such action by central authorities. Despite the judiciary’s independence, he stressed that accountability is non‑negotiable in a mature democracy where citizens expect equality before the law.
The Vice‑President further criticised what he sees as institutional overreach, particularly the involvement of the Chief Justice of India in the appointment of the CBI Director. He argued that executive functions should remain within the executive branch to preserve the doctrine of separation of powers.
Dhankhar raised concerns about post‑retirement roles accepted by judges, suggesting that selective appointments could lead to patronage, eroding judicial impartiality. He welcomed measures towards transparency and accountability by the judiciary’s current leadership, but noted that confidence may take years to fully restore following what he described as “disturbing and challenging” years.
The matter is set to proceed in Parliament during the monsoon session, where both government and opposition are expected to push an impeachment motion against Justice Varma. Meanwhile, a Supreme Court‑appointed panel continues its inquiry, having recorded statements from more than 50 individuals including Delhi Police and Fire Service officials, though an FIR remains pending.
As investigations unfold, legal scholars emphasise that prosecuting public servants must comply with constitutional safeguards, balancing judicial independence with the imperative of accountability. Experts caution that failure to act decisively could further erode public trust in the judiciary—a development with significant democratic implications.
Putin Minister’s Dismissal Precedes Apparent Suicide 