New Delhi: In a major development, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who also serves as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, has resigned from his post, citing health reasons. His resignation has triggered a crucial procedural step in Parliament concerning allegations against Justice Yashwant Verma.
According to high-level sources, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is expected to announce the formation of a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the allegations leveled against Justice Verma, in line with the Judges (Inquiry) Act.
152 MPs Signed Motion in Lok Sabha
The action follows a notice submitted on July 21 to the Lok Sabha Speaker, signed by 152 Members of Parliament, calling for an inquiry into allegations against Justice Verma. A similar notice signed by 63 opposition MPs was also submitted on the same day to then-Rajya Sabha Chairman Dhankhar.
With notices submitted in both Houses of Parliament, the Judges (Inquiry) Act mandates the constitution of a joint committee to examine the charges.
Composition of the Committee
As per procedure, the committee will comprise–
- The Chief Justice of India or another Supreme Court judge,
- The Chief Justice of a High Court, and
- A distinguished jurist.
The names of the judges will be recommended by the Chief Justice of India, to whom the Speaker will formally write. The eminent jurist will be chosen by the Lok Sabha Speaker, as is his prerogative under the law.
High-Level Consultations Underway
Sources indicate that a series of consultations are ongoing between senior leaders, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Rajya Sabha Leader of the House J.P. Nadda, Speaker Om Birla, and Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Harivansh.
Their discussions are focused on coordinating the next constitutional and legal steps in light of the notice and Dhankhar’s sudden resignation.
What the Judges (Inquiry) Act Says
The Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968 lays down the procedure for investigating allegations of misbehavior or incapacity against judges of the Supreme Court or High Courts. When a motion is admitted in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, a joint committee is constituted to probe the charges.
Dhankhar’s resignation before such a committee could be formed has now placed the onus solely on the Lok Sabha Speaker to proceed with the process. However, both Houses remain stakeholders in the inquiry.
What Next?
The Speaker is expected to formally write to the Chief Justice of India shortly and initiate the selection of the jurist. Once constituted, the committee will conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations, the outcome of which may determine Justice Verma’s judicial future.
