Formation of Inquiry Committee: A Decisive Step
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated that serious allegations of corruption and indiscipline have been leveled against Allahabad High Court Justice Yashwant Verma. Under Article 124 (4) of the Constitution, a high-level inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the judge's alleged misconduct. The formation of this committee is considered a robust step towards safeguarding the image of the judiciary and ensuring strict action against judges found guilty.
Om Birla said, "We are strict against corruption, and a united voice must be raised in Parliament on this issue. The purity and integrity of the judiciary should be our highest priority." He also clarified that fairness and transparency will be maintained throughout the investigation.
Introduction to the Members of the Inquiry Committee
The three-member committee comprises leading experts in the judicial and legal fields. Supreme Court Justice Arvind Kumar has been appointed as the head of the investigation, known for his impartial judgments and judicial experience. Madras High Court Justice Maninder Mohan is also a member of this committee, bringing extensive experience in the judicial domain. Additionally, senior advocate B.V. Acharya from the Karnataka High Court has been chosen for his legal expertise and to ensure an unbiased investigation.
The Beginning of the Dispute and the Case
The controversy began when burnt notes were found outside Justice Verma's Delhi residence in March 2025. This incident caused a stir in the judicial world and was considered a serious matter. Subsequently, the Delhi High Court transferred Justice Verma to the Allahabad High Court. Furthermore, the Delhi High Court formed an internal committee to investigate the allegations, which deemed the matter to be of a high-level nature.
On August 7, the Delhi High Court rejected Justice Verma's petition, delivering a significant setback to him. Following this decision, discussions regarding his investigation and removal proposal intensified in the Lok Sabha.
Demand for Transparency and Accountability in the Judiciary
This case has reignited the discussion on transparency and accountability in the Indian judiciary. Maintaining public trust in the judiciary is essential, and swift action should be taken upon confirmation of corruption at any level. Questioning the image of a person holding a judicial position affects the entire institution of the judiciary. Therefore, the step taken by the Lok Sabha Speaker is considered commendable.
Message of Zero Tolerance Towards Corruption
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized that both Parliament and the judiciary must adopt a firm stance against corruption. He stated that no compromise will be made in such cases, and legal action will be completed within a defined timeframe against those found guilty. This will not only protect the honor of the judiciary but also strengthen the faith of the general public in it.
