New Delhi: Former Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Ganapati Bhat, a 1989-batch officer from Uttara Kannada, has been appointed Secretary to the three-member inquiry committee formed under the Judges (Inquiry) Act to investigate serious allegations against Justice Yashwant Varma. The appointment order, issued by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday, marks another key step in the judicial probe that could potentially lead to impeachment proceedings.
Bhat Brings Three-Decade Experience in Income Tax and Parliamentary Affairs
Ganapati Bhat retired as the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax for the Karnataka and Goa Region. Over his distinguished career, Bhat also served as–
- Principal Chief Commissioner (International Taxation), New Delhi
- Director General of Income Tax Investigation for Karnataka, Goa, and Kerala
- Additional Secretary in the Lok Sabha
His extensive experience in both investigative and parliamentary roles positions him well to assist the committee as it navigates a complex and high-stakes inquiry.
Committee to Probe Allegations Against Justice Yashwant Varma
The inquiry committee, announced by Speaker Om Birla last month, is composed of–
- Justice Aravind Kumar, Supreme Court of India
- Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, Madras High Court
- Senior Advocate B V Acharya
The panel has been constituted under the Judges (Inquiry) Act to investigate corruption allegations against Justice Yashwant Varma, currently facing potential impeachment.
Background: Burnt Currency Found at Justice Varma’s Residence
The controversy erupted after burnt currency notes were discovered in March 2025 at the official residence of Justice Varma (then a Delhi High Court judge) following a fire incident. The discovery raised serious concerns, triggering calls for a formal investigation and sparking political and legal debate.
Following initial inquiries, the matter was escalated to a parliamentary judicial committee, which could recommend impeachment proceedings if Justice Varma is found guilty of misconduct or corruption.
Next Steps: Awaiting Panel Findings for Possible Impeachment Motion
If the inquiry committee, with Bhat as secretary, concludes that there is merit to the charges against Justice Varma, the findings could initiate formal impeachment proceedings in Parliament – a rare and serious move in India’s judicial history.
