Over 240 MPs Push for Impeachment of Justice Varma, Citing Serious Misconduct

A major political move is unfolding in Parliament as 145 Lok Sabha MPs and around 100 Rajya Sabha lawmakers have formally submitted notices seeking the impeachment of Justice Arun Kumar Varma. The demand is linked to alleged irregularities and judicial overreach, sparking intense debate across legal and political circles.

This is one of the rare occasions where such a large group of legislators has come together to initiate proceedings against a sitting judge of a high court.

What Triggered the Impeachment Demand

Justice Varma has been under scrutiny for several months over his handling of sensitive cases, with MPs accusing him of bypassing established legal norms and allegedly misusing his position. While the exact allegations remain under wraps due to legal constraints, sources close to the development suggest the lawmakers were disturbed by repeated incidents that hinted at partiality and procedural lapses.

Several opposition parties have backed the move, saying the judiciary must remain transparent and accountable, especially when public trust is at stake.

How the Impeachment Process Works

Impeaching a judge in India isn’t easy. It requires support from at least 100 Rajya Sabha or 50 Lok Sabha MPs to submit a motion. In this case, the numbers far exceed that threshold, indicating coordinated political will.

Once submitted, the notice goes to the Speaker or Chairman, who may admit or reject it. If admitted, an inquiry committee is set up. Only after their report confirms misconduct can Parliament vote on the motion — which must pass with a two-thirds majority in both houses.

Political Reactions and Legal Sensitivity

While many in the opposition are calling this a necessary step to “restore integrity,” ruling party leaders have been more cautious. Some have said that the judiciary must be protected from political influence, while others argue that no public institution should be above scrutiny.

Legal experts are also divided. Some support the move, citing accountability, while others warn it could set a worrying precedent if not handled with due process.

What It Means for the Public and Tier 2 Cities

In smaller cities and towns, where citizens rely heavily on lower courts and high court benches for justice, cases like this matter deeply. Judicial credibility directly affects the public’s faith in the system. If a judge is found guilty of misconduct, it raises important questions about oversight in the judiciary.

People from Tier 2 cities often lack the resources or legal literacy to challenge bias, so maintaining the integrity of the system is critical for equal access to justice.

Conclusion: A Rare But Serious Political Move

The impeachment notice against Justice Varma is more than just a legal step — it’s a message. Whether or not the motion succeeds, it underlines growing demands for accountability in all branches of governance, including the judiciary. As the process unfolds, eyes across the nation — especially from courts to classrooms — will be watching what happens next