Supreme Court seeks transfer and internal inquiry into cash pile allegations involving Delhi High Court judge

Supreme Court Orders Transfer and Probe Into Cash Pile Allegations Involving Delhi High Court Judge

The Supreme Court has taken decisive action in response to explosive allegations involving a Delhi High Court judge, directing an immediate transfer and internal inquiry after a viral video purportedly showed stacks of cash at the judge's residence. The unprecedented move has sent shockwaves through India's legal community and raised serious questions about judicial accountability.  

The controversy erupted last week when an anonymous whistleblower circulated a video clip allegedly showing bundles of currency notes being counted inside what appears to be a private residence. While the footage does not explicitly identify the judge, social media investigators and some media outlets linked it to a sitting Delhi High Court judge known for handling high-profile corporate and political cases. The judge's identity has been withheld due to the ongoing legal proceedings.  

A special bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud took suo motu cognizance of the matter, calling the allegations "extremely serious" and emphasizing the need to preserve public trust in the judiciary. In a late-night hearing, the court ordered the immediate transfer of the judge to another High Court to ensure an impartial inquiry, the formation of a three-member panel of senior Supreme Court judges to oversee the investigation, and the preservation of all electronic evidence, including the viral video. "The judiciary cannot afford even a shadow of doubt about its integrity," Justice Chandrachud observed during the proceedings.  

The decision has sparked mixed reactions within legal circles. While many have praised the Supreme Court's swift response, others have expressed concerns about the implications of transferring a judge before conclusive evidence is established. Eminent jurist Harish Salve cautioned that such a move could set a "dangerous precedent," while former Law Minister Ashwani Kumar argued that extraordinary measures were justified given the gravity of the allegations. The judge in question has reportedly denied any wrongdoing, suggesting the video may be "doctored or misattributed."  

The Delhi High Court Bar Association has called for restraint, urging the media to avoid sensationalism until the inquiry is completed. Meanwhile, legal experts note that if the allegations are substantiated, they could lead to impeachment proceedings. The case has also reignited debates about the need for stronger judicial accountability mechanisms and potential reforms to the in-house inquiry process.  

With the inquiry committee given eight weeks to submit its findings, the nation watches closely as this case unfolds. The outcome could prove pivotal for India's judiciary, testing its ability to uphold transparency and public confidence while navigating allegations of misconduct within its own ranks.