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Justice Yashwant Varma Removed from Active Duty Amid Cash Controversy
Justice Yashwant Varma of the Delhi High Court has been removed from active duty following the discovery of burnt cash at his residence during Holi celebrations. The Supreme Court has initiated an investigation, citing the need for transparency and accountability.
Lead: Justice Yashwant Varma, a judge at the Delhi High Court since October 2021, has been relieved from his duties “with immediate effect” following the shocking discovery of a pile of burnt cash at his home. The incident, which occurred during Holi celebrations, has prompted the Supreme Court to form a committee to investigate the matter. The developments comprise a significant legal controversy in New Delhi, raising questions about judicial integrity and the handling of allegations against a high-ranking official.
Background of the Incident
– Justice Varma’s home was the site of the cash discovery during a Holi celebration.
– He has since faced significant scrutiny and criticism, particularly after the money was found burnt.
– The Supreme Court has established a three-member committee from various High Courts to uncover the facts.
Justice Varma’s Response
– Varma has publicly denied ownership of the cash, asserting that neither he nor his family members kept money in the outhouse where the cash was found.
– He referred to the structure as “disconnected from the main residence” and accessible to the public.
– Expressing shock, Justice Varma claimed that a “conspiracy” is at play against him, emphasizing that his family’s financial activities are well-documented and conducted through legitimate banking channels.
Reactions and Protocols
– Legal experts and critics have voiced concerns over the decision to transfer Justice Varma back to the Allahabad High Court, urging for a thorough investigation before any actions are taken against him.
– Senior advocate Harish Salve suggested that the Collegium system is inadequate to address such critical issues and called for the transfer to be put on hold pending the outcome of the inquiry.
Supreme Court’s Clarification
– The Supreme Court later stated that the transfer of Justice Varma is unrelated to the cash investigation yet acknowledged the swirling rumors.
– Transparency was emphasized when the Supreme Court released a report detailing investigations, including photographs and videos, albeit some sections were redacted for confidentiality.
The Role of the Delhi Fire Service
– Delhi Fire Services chief Atul Garg has distanced himself from claims regarding the absence of cash evidence, leading to further confusion surrounding the incident.
– Garg’s clarification has raised questions about media reporting and the accuracy of statements issued regarding the episode.
Conclusion: The controversy surrounding Justice Yashwant Varma embodies larger issues of judicial accountability and transparency in India. As investigations continue, the legal community and the public alike await clearer insights into the allegations and their implications for Justice Varma’s future in the judiciary.
Keywords: Justice Yashwant Varma, Delhi High Court, burnt cash, Supreme Court investigation, judicial accountability, legal controversy, banking channels.
Hashtags: #JusticeYashwantVarma #DelhiHighCourt #CashControversy #JudicialIntegrity #SupremeCourt #LegalNews
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