When someone in power faces accusations, it often sends shockwaves through the system. Justice Yashwant Varma, a judge of the Delhi High Court, is currently at the centre of a heated controversy. Accused of keeping illicit cash at his residence, he has come forward with a strong denial, claiming that he is being framed. His response has sparked intense discussions, with questions being raised about the authenticity of the claims and the evidence presented against him.
A Shocking Allegation and a Firm Denial
Justice Yashwant Varma is under an in-house inquiry initiated by the Chief Justice of India. However, in his response to the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, Justice DK Upadhyay, he has strongly refuted the allegations. He insists that the claims of illicit cash being found at his residence are baseless and part of a larger conspiracy to malign his reputation.
According to Justice Yashwant Varma, the room in question where the alleged cash was reportedly found, was not part of his official residence but a storeroom that was disconnected from his living area. He argues that this storeroom was used for storing household items like furniture, carpets, and other miscellaneous things. It was not locked and was easily accessible from both the front gate and the backdoor of the staff quarters. This raises serious doubts about whether the cash was ever his in the first place.
What Happened on the Night of the Fire?
The controversy began when a fire broke out in the storeroom on the night of March 14. Justice Yashwant Varma and his wife were not home at the time, and only their daughter and his elderly mother were present. His daughter and his private secretary immediately alerted the fire department. Interestingly, on the morning of March 15, there was no sign of cash in the burnt room. Even the Chief Justice’s secretary, who visited the site, did not find any money. This inconsistency raises serious concerns. If there was a huge stash of cash, why was it not found the next day? Justice Varma believes this is a clear attempt to frame him. He points out that similar baseless allegations against him had circulated on social media in December 2024. He also emphasizes that all his financial transactions are documented through banks, UPI, and card payments, making it impossible for him to have hidden such a large amount of cash in an open, easily accessible space.
Suspicious Videos and a Mysterious Disappearance
The controversy deepened when the Delhi Police Commissioner shared photos and videos with the Delhi High Court Chief Justice, allegedly showing sacks of currency in the fire. Justice Yashwant Varma was shocked upon seeing these visuals. He questions their authenticity, stating that such cash was never visible when he and his family saw the room after the fire. Even if the video is taken at face value, Justice Varma highlights a critical point there has been no official recovery or seizure of cash. None of his staff members, including his daughter and private secretary, ever saw any burnt currency in the storeroom. This raises an important question: where did the supposed cash go?
A High-Level Investigation Ordered
Amid the rising controversy, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has set up a three-member committee to conduct an in-depth investigation into the matter. The committee includes:
- Justice Sheel Nagu – Chief Justice of the Punjab & Haryana High Court
- Justice GS Sandhawalia – Chief Justice of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh
- Justice Anu Sivaraman – Judge of the High Court of Karnataka
Additionally, Justice Yashwant Varma has been relieved of all judicial work until the inquiry is completed.
A Case of Justice or Injustice?
Justice Varma’s response has raised several important questions. If there was indeed cash, why was it not seized? If the videos showing cash are real, why was the money missing the next day? Why was the storeroom, an open and commonly used space, chosen to store illicit cash? And most importantly, could this be an attempt to frame an esteemed judge? As the investigation unfolds, the truth behind this controversy will eventually come to light. Until then, Justice Varma stands firm in his defence, hoping that justice will prevail.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and official statements. It does not intend to make any accusations or judgments regarding the case. The matter is under investigation, and the final verdict will be determined by the concerned authorities.
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