Impeachment Motion Against
Justice Yashwant Varma
Why it is in the news:
Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court.
Over 100 MPs have signed a notice to bring the motion for his removal.
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju made the statement confirming the notice.
The signed notice meets the minimum support required for tabling an impeachment motion in the Lok Sabha.
The recommendation for Justice Varma’s removal came after a committee of three High Court judges indicted him.
This indictment followed the discovery of half-burnt currency notes at his outhouse. e.g.: This case highlights the mechanisms of judicial accountability within the Indian constitutional framework.
About Impeachment Motion (of a Judge)
The process for the removal of a judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court.
It is governed by Article 124(4) (for SC judges) and Article 217 (for HC judges) of the Constitution, read with the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
The process begins with a notice signed by 100 Lok Sabha MPs or 50 Rajya Sabha MPs, which is then submitted to the Speaker/Chairman
If admitted, an inquiry committee (usually of three judges) investigates the charges.
If they find the judge guilty, a motion is debated and must be passed by a special majority (two-thirds present and voting, and absolute majority of total membership) in both Houses of Parliament.
Judicial Accountability:Mechanisms and principles that ensure judges are
responsible for their actions and decisions, upholding ethical standards, and adhering to the rule of law.
High Courts The highest judicial bodies in individual states, having original, appellate, and writ jurisdiction over their respective territories.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister: A Union Minister responsible for managing the
government’s business in Parliament, including legislative proposals, parliamentary debates, and coordination with various ministries.
Relevant Articles:
Article 124(4) & (5) – Removal of SC/HC judges.
Article 217 – Appointment and conditions of service of High Court judges.
Article 121 No discussion in Parliament on conduct of judges except for removal.