The Allahabad High Court Bar Association (HCBA) has strongly opposed the proposed repatriation of Justice Yashwant Varma from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court, following reports of ₹15 crores in cash allegedly being recovered from his official residence in Delhi.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Justice and all Judges of the Allahabad High Court, the HCBA condemned the transfer, stating that the Allahabad High Court "is not a trash bin" and that it will not tolerate corruption within the judiciary. The Association expressed shock and dismay over the Supreme Court Collegium’s decision, calling it highly inappropriate given the serious allegations against Justice Varma.

The HCBA has also raised grave concerns about judicial appointments, highlighting the severe shortage of judges in the Allahabad High Court. The letter points out that fresh cases remain unheard for months, significantly diminishing public trust in the judicial system. The Association further criticized the lack of consultation with the Bar regarding judicial elevations, questioning the transparency and fairness of the selection process.

The letter states that the Allahabad High Court is already struggling with a heavy backlog and a shortage of judges, but that does not mean it should be treated as a "trash bin." The Association has also hinted at a possible conspiracy aimed at dividing the Allahabad High Court, suggesting that a larger agenda may be at play behind these developments.

In response to these concerns, the HCBA has announced an emergent General House Meeting on Monday, March 24, at 1:15 P.M., to discuss the issue and decide on the future course of action.

The Rajya Sabha also discussed the alleged recovery of unaccounted cash from the official residence of Justice Yashwant Varma. Vice-President and Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Jagdeep Dhankhar, assured that all necessary procedural steps would be taken. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh raised the issue, calling it a "shocking case" that has stunned the nation.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has initiated an in-house inquiry against Justice Yashwant Varma, further intensifying scrutiny on the matter.

Source-News