In a significant move towards transparency, 30 out of the 33 sitting judges of the Supreme Court have submitted their declarations of assets, as confirmed by information available on the official website. The Supreme Court, which is functioning at a strength of 33 judges, has a sanctioned capacity of 34, including the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
According to the official website, the Full Court of the Supreme Court had resolved that all judges should declare their assets upon assuming office and whenever a substantial acquisition is made. This requirement applies to the Chief Justice as well.
The declaration of assets by judges, including real estate and investments held either in their name or that of their spouse or dependents, was first mandated in a Full Court Meeting held on May 7, 1997. The declarations are submitted to the Chief Justice of the Court and remain confidential unless voluntarily disclosed.
In August 2009, the Supreme Court decided to allow judges to disclose their asset statements publicly by posting them on the official website on a voluntary basis. This ongoing effort aims to enhance transparency and public trust in the judiciary.
