Judicial Accountability Under Fire: A Call for Equality Before the Law

A Supreme Court plea demands that Delhi Police file an FIR regarding a semi-burnt stash of cash found at the residence of Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma. The plea challenges a 1991 ruling that requires the Chief Justice's approval to initiate criminal proceedings against judges, arguing it undermines equality and accountability.

A petition in the Supreme Court seeks an FIR from Delhi Police over the alleged semi-burnt cash stash found at the residence of Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma. It also challenges a 1991 judgment which mandates Chief Justice's prior nod before prosecuting judges.

Following a fire on March 14 at Justice Varma's residence, the Supreme Court collegium directed the withdrawal of his judicial duties. An inquiry has been ordered amidst rising concerns about judicial accountability. The plea argues the 1991 ruling violates the constitutional principle of equality before the law.

The plea calls for the treatment of judges equally under the law, akin to ordinary citizens, and seeks action against judicial corruption. It urges Delhi Police to register an FIR, claiming the existing protocol creates a privileged class immune to legal standards.

(With inputs from agencies.)