New Delhi, May 28, 2025 (ANI): On reports of the government to move an impeachment motion against Justice Yashwant Varma over the alleged recovery of money from his residence, Former ASG and senior advocate Aman Lekhi opined that if this crisis is not handled appropriately and wisely, it could become “a catastrophe”. He said, "If this crisis is not handled appropriately and wisely, it could become a catastrophe. The problem is essentially one of betrayal of faith and of the promise of fairness on which a judicial system is established... This shows that the fiduciary duty that the judge has to the public, which is the symbol of impartiality, has been compromised. The judicial process didn't seem as equal and effective as it should have been. The purpose for which this entire system is devised was to a large extent compromised. If that is so, then it will seem that the institution itself is ineffective. If action is not taken against people like Justice Varma, then the deterrence or the threat of action, which could prevent repetition, will not be available, creating a culture of impunity. Impeachment is warranted and necessary, but it is effective enough. In the prevailing peculiar circumstances, it will be justified if criminal prosecution is also initiated against Justice Varma because there is adequate and substantial cause for initiating such proceedings against him. While the impeachment process will have political ramifications, a legal process would have far greater value and worth than the impeachment."
