Justice Yashwant Varma withdraws from parliamentary inquiry after resigning as judge

Former Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma has withdrawn from the parliamentary inquiry that was examining allegations against him, shortly after stepping down from his judicial position.

The development comes in the wake of his resignation, which effectively ended his tenure as a sitting judge. Following this, Varma communicated his decision to no longer participate in the inquiry process initiated by Parliament.

The parliamentary inquiry had been set up to examine allegations against Varma during his time in office. Such inquiries are typically conducted as part of the process that could lead to impeachment proceedings against a sitting judge.

However, with Varma no longer holding judicial office, the context of the inquiry has shifted. His withdrawal means he will not be part of further proceedings related to the parliamentary probe.

According to the report, Varma conveyed his decision formally, indicating that he would not continue to engage with the inquiry after his resignation. The reasons cited relate to the change in his official status following his exit from the judiciary.

The inquiry was being carried out under constitutional provisions that allow Parliament to investigate allegations of misconduct against judges of higher courts. These proceedings involve the formation of a committee to examine evidence and determine whether further action is warranted.

With Varma’s resignation, the immediate question of impeachment becomes less relevant, as such proceedings are generally applicable to serving judges. His withdrawal from the inquiry adds another layer of complexity to how the matter will be taken forward.