Collegium recommends transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma to Allahabad High Court
Supreme Court Collegium Repatriates Justice Yashwant Varma Amid Cash Controversy
In a significant development, the Supreme Court Collegium on Monday passed a resolution to repatriate Delhi High Court Judge Yashwant Varma to the Allahabad High Court. This decision comes just days after unaccounted cash was reportedly discovered at his official residence.
Repatriation Order Issued
A statement issued by the Supreme Court confirmed the decision: “The Supreme Court Collegium, in its meetings held on 20th and 24th March, has recommended repatriation of Justice Yashwant Varma, Judge, High Court of Delhi, to the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad.”
Discovery of Unaccounted Cash
The controversy unfolded following a fire that broke out at Justice Varma’s official residence on Tughlak Road around 11:35 PM on March 14. During the response operation, first responders, including personnel from the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) and potentially the police, reportedly discovered large amounts of cash in the residence’s storeroom. Some of the currency notes were allegedly damaged by the fire.
At the time of the incident, Justice Varma and his wife were away in Bhopal.
Justice Varma’s Response
Justice Yashwant Varma has firmly denied any involvement with the cash discovered at his residence, asserting that he is a victim of a “conspiracy to malign” him. He maintains that he has no knowledge of the source of the money and has called for a fair and transparent investigation.
Deliberations Within the Supreme Court Collegium
On March 20, the Supreme Court Collegium unanimously recommended Justice Varma’s transfer to his parent high court in Allahabad. However, discussions within the Collegium revealed divisions on the appropriate course of action. While some members believed that a transfer was sufficient, at least two judges pushed for an in-depth investigation. One suggested that Justice Varma be immediately stripped of his judicial responsibilities, while another advocated for a formal inquiry to ensure institutional transparency and accountability.
Opposition from the Allahabad High Court Bar Association
The decision to transfer Justice Varma to the Allahabad High Court was met with strong opposition from the Allahabad High Court Bar Association (HCBA). The association expressed concerns over the implications of the transfer, questioning whether the Allahabad High Court was being treated as a “dumping ground” for judges facing allegations.
In a strongly worded letter, the HCBA underscored that corruption in the judiciary is unacceptable and criticized the move, stating it was “taken aback” by the decision.
Formal Inquiry Ordered
Amid the growing controversy, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, on March 22, constituted a three-member committee to conduct a detailed investigation into the allegations against Justice Varma. This committee is expected to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the discovery of cash at his residence and determine whether any legal or disciplinary action is warranted.
Background of Justice Yashwant Varma
Justice Yashwant Varma was originally appointed as a judge of the Allahabad High Court in 2016. In October 2021, he was transferred to the Delhi High Court. Prior to his elevation to the bench, he served as standing counsel for the Uttar Pradesh government.
The ongoing inquiry and its findings will be crucial in determining Justice Varma’s future within the judiciary and addressing concerns about judicial accountability.
