In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has published the assets of its judges on its official website. Announced on April 1, 2025, during a full-court meeting, this move aims to enhance transparency and strengthen public trust in the judiciary. As of May 5, 2025, the assets of 21 out of 33 serving judges are available online, with more expected as declarations are submitted.
In This Article :
What Assets Are Disclosed?
The disclosures cover movable and immovable properties, including real estate, investments, and personal items. For example, Justice K.V. Viswanathan reported investments worth Rs 120.96 crore and income tax payments of Rs 91.47 crore from 2010 to 2025. Justice Bela M. Trivedi declared a house in Ahmedabad, mutual funds worth Rs 60 lakh, and a 2015 Maruti Swift car. Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia listed a 2008 Maruti Zen Estilo, currently unused, and noted that his properties were acquired before his judgeship. These details provide a glimpse into the financial standings of the judges, fostering openness.
Addressing a Long-Standing Issue
The decision follows decades of debate on judicial transparency. In 1997, the Supreme Court resolved that judges should declare assets, but compliance was voluntary, with only 12% of Supreme Court and High Court judges making public disclosures until recently. The issue gained urgency after allegations of unaccounted cash at the residence of a former judge of the Delhi High Court, prompting calls for greater accountability. This initiative is a significant step toward addressing those concerns.
Clarifying the Appointment Process
Alongside asset disclosures, the Supreme Court published details of the judicial appointment process, outlining the roles of the High Court Collegium, state governments, and the Supreme Court Collegium. This effort aims to demystify judicial operations and make the system more accessible to the public, reinforcing trust in the institution.
Public and Social Media Response
The public has largely welcomed the move, with X posts praising it as a “bold step” for accountability. However, some users speculate it may be a response to ongoing debates over judicial reforms, such as the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC). Regardless, the disclosures mark a turning point for India’s judiciary.
Setting a Precedent for Transparency
By making judges’ assets public, the Supreme Court sets a powerful example for accountability in public institutions. This initiative strengthens public confidence and paves the way for a more transparent judiciary in India.
-By Manoj H
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