Overview India bloc MPs are planning to move an impeachment motion against Justice G.R. Swaminathan of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court . This action stems from his order directing Subramaniya Swamy temple authorities to ensure a lamp was lit at a pillar near a dargah . The move highlights the complexities of judicial decisions involving religious sites and the mechanisms for judicial accountability in India. Key Developments Initiation: The impeachment motion is being initiated by India bloc MPs . Reason: The motion is in response to a court order regarding the lighting of a lamp near a dargah. Signatures: CPI(M) Su. Venkatesan stated that signatures are being collected and will be submitted to Parliament on December 9, 2025 . Requirements: 100 MPs from Lok Sabha or 50 Rajya Sabha MPs are needed to sign the motion. Investigation: If accepted, a three-member committee investigates the motion. Approval: Both houses must pass the removal motion by a special majority (two-thirds present and voting, plus absolute majority of total membership). Final Order: The President issues the removal order. Impeachment Procedure Explained The impeachment process for judges in India is a multi-stage procedure designed to ensure accountability while safeguarding judicial independence: Motion Initiation: A motion for impeachment must be supported by a minimum number of MPs (100 in Lok Sabha or 50 in Rajya Sabha). Acceptance: The Speaker (Lok Sabha) or Chairman (Rajya Sabha) can either admit or reject the motion. Investigation Committee: If admitted, a three-member committee is formed to investigate the charges. Committee Report: The committee submits its report to the respective House. Parliamentary Vote: If the committee finds the judge guilty, the House debates and votes on the impeachment motion. A special majority is required for passage. Presidential Order: If both Houses pass the motion, it is sent to the President, who then issues the removal order. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS2: Polity and Governance , specifically concerning the judiciary, parliamentary procedures, and constitutional mechanisms for accountability. It also touches upon GS1: Indian Culture due to the religious context of the case. Understanding the impeachment process and the role of the judiciary is crucial for the UPSC exam. Important Facts The case involves Justice G.R. Swaminathan of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court . The issue revolves around an order concerning the Subramaniya Swamy temple and a dargah . The impeachment motion requires signatures from a significant number of MPs ( 100 from Lok Sabha or 50 from Rajya Sabha ). The final removal order is issued by the President of India . No judge has been successfully impeached in India to date.