New Delhi [India], March 27: The Presidents of High Court Bar Associations met Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna to discuss the controversy surrounding Justice Yashwant Varma, urging the Supreme Court Collegium to withdraw his transfer and remove all administrative responsibilities assigned to him.
Bar Associations Oppose Transfer of Justice Varma
In a joint statement, the Bar Associations emphasized their request:
“The Bar Association requests the Chief Justice and the Collegium to withdraw the transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma and to withdraw all administrative work in addition to the judicial work which is already withdrawn.”
This comes after the Supreme Court Collegium, in meetings held on March 20 and 24, 2025, recommended that Justice Yashwant Varma be repatriated to the Allahabad High Court, his parent institution.
Fire Incident at Justice Varma’s Residence Sparks Controversy
Justice Yashwant Varma became embroiled in controversy after a fire broke out at his residence on March 14, 2025, leading to the alleged discovery of a substantial amount of cash. Following this, the Delhi High Court withdrew all judicial responsibilities from him until further notice.
On March 26, Delhi Police officials were seen securing the affected area and recording evidence. DCP Devesh Kumar Mahla was spotted leaving the premises as investigations into the cause of the fire continued.
Justice Varma has denied all allegations, asserting that neither he nor his family owns the discovered cash. He termed the incident a deliberate conspiracy to frame him.
Allahabad HC Bar Association Opposes Transfer, Demands Investigation
The Allahabad High Court Bar Association strongly objected to Justice Varma’s transfer, stating that no High Court should be treated as a “dumping ground” for judges facing allegations.
Speaking to ANI, Allahabad HC Bar Association President Anil Tiwari demanded that:
- Justice Varma should remain in Delhi under the Supreme Court’s watch until the investigation is complete.
- All judgments delivered by Justice Varma should be reviewed and scrutinized to restore public confidence.
- The CBI and ED should be permitted to file an FIR and formally investigate the case.
- The issue of “Uncle Judge Syndrome” should be addressed—suggesting that judges should not serve in courts where their family members practice to maintain transparency.
Legal and Institutional Implications
This controversy has raised critical questions about judicial accountability, the handling of judicial transfers, and potential corruption within the judiciary. The Supreme Court now faces mounting pressure to ensure transparency while addressing concerns raised by both judicial bodies and legal associations.