Supreme Court Mandates Public Disclosure Of Judges’ Assets On Official Website

In a significant step towards transparency and accountability within the judiciary, the Supreme Court of India has decided to publish the asset declarations of its judges on its official website.

The apex court issued a press release on 1 April 2025, confirming the resolution taken by the Full Court.

The release stated: “The Full Court of the Supreme Court of India has decided that the statement of assets of the Judges of this Court shall be placed in the public domain by uploading the same on the website of this Court.”

As of now, 21 out of the 33 sitting judges have uploaded their asset statements.

Context: Move Follows Controversy At Delhi High Court

The development comes in the wake of a controversial cash recovery from the residence of a Delhi High Court judge on 14 March 2025.

The Supreme Court launched an internal inquiry and has since recommended the concerned judge’s transfer to the Allahabad High Court.

While the Supreme Court has not officially linked the decision to this incident, legal observers consider the move a response to mounting public scrutiny and the need to reinforce judicial integrity.

A Resolution Decades In The Making

The Supreme Court began its push for transparency during a Full Court Meeting on 7 May 1997, where judges resolved to declare all assets, including real estate and investments held personally or in the names of dependents, to the Chief Justice of India (CJI).

These declarations, however, were to remain confidential.

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In August 2009, a shift occurred when the Full Court decided to allow the voluntary disclosure of these asset statements on the Supreme Court’s website.

The 2025 resolution now makes such publication mandatory.

Declarations To Be Updated Upon Substantial Acquisition

The official website notes that judges must declare their assets not only on assuming office but also when acquiring any asset of substantial value.

This requirement applies equally to the CJI.

The statement clarified that the Full Court resolved to place the declaration of assets in the public domain and added that this resolution applies to all future declarations as well.

A Step Towards Greater Judicial Accountability

The Supreme Court currently operates with 33 judges against a sanctioned strength of 34, including the Chief Justice.

Legal reform advocates hail the decision to place judges’ financial disclosures in the public domain as a landmark moment in efforts to improve transparency within India’s highest judicial institution.