Cash at Judge’s Door Case

March 31, 2025

Recently, a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Court in Chandigarh acquitted former Punjab and Haryana High Court Judge Nirmal Yadav after a lengthy 14-year legal battle. The case, known as the ‘Cash at Judge’s Door’ case, involved serious allegations of bribery and corruption. Following the verdict, Justice Yadav expressed her faith in the judiciary, acknowledging the prolonged process but affirming its fairness.

Details of the ‘Cash at Judge’s Door’ Case

The case originated on August 13, 2008, when Rs 15 lakh was allegedly delivered to the residence of Justice Nirmaljit Kaur instead of Justice Yadav due to their similar names. Justice Kaur reported the incident to the Chief Justice and the police, leading to the registration of an FIR on August 16, 2008. The CBI took over the investigation, registering a fresh FIR on August 28, 2008.

CBI Investigation and Trial

The CBI’s investigation faced numerous challenges. Initially, the agency filed a closure report in December 2009, but this was contested by the prosecutor. The court mandated further investigation, leading to the CBI seeking sanction to prosecute Justice Yadav, which was granted in 2010. A chargesheet was filed against her and three others in 2011. The trial was marked by the death of the main accused, Sanjiv Bansal, in 2017, and various procedural delays.

Verdict of the CBI Court

On March 29, 2025, the CBI court, presided over by Judge Alka Malik, acquitted Justice Nirmal Yadav and the other accused. The court cited a lack of evidence and contradictions in witness statements as the basis for its decision. While the acquittal marked moment in the case, a detailed judgement is awaited.

Implications for the Judiciary

The case has raised critical questions regarding judicial integrity and the handling of corruption allegations against judges. The lengthy legal process marks the complexities involved in such high-profile cases. The acquittal may influence public perception of the judiciary’s ability to manage corruption effectively.

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