Justice Yashwant Varma’s Transfer: Allahabad HC Bar Association Announces Indefinite Strike

The transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court has sparked controversy, leading the Allahabad High Court Bar Association (HCBA) to call for an indefinite strike starting March 25, 2025. The move has raised concerns about judicial transparency, given the allegations of unexplained cash discovery at Justice Varma’s residence.


Justice Yashwant Varma’s Transfer – The Full Story

On March 25, 2025, the Supreme Court collegium, led by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, confirmed Justice Yashwant Varma’s transfer to the Allahabad High Court, his parent court. This decision followed an investigation into a significant cash recovery from his official residence in Delhi during a fire incident.

Key Developments

  • The Supreme Court collegium reaffirmed its decision to transfer Justice Varma.
  • The Allahabad HC Bar Association immediately opposed the move and declared an indefinite strike.
  • The HCBA is reaching out to Lucknow Bar Association for additional support.
  • Lawyers are demanding an impeachment inquiry into Justice Varma’s conduct.
  • The Delhi HC Chief Justice is leading an internal investigation into the allegations.

Why Is There Opposition to Justice Varma’s Transfer?

The Allahabad HC Bar Association has taken a strong stand against Justice Varma’s transfer, stating that:
✅ His past judgments should be reviewed to ensure judicial integrity.
✅ The transfer raises serious ethical concerns amid an ongoing probe.
✅ It could erode public confidence in the judicial system.

Bar Association’s Official Resolution

“All judgments delivered by Justice Yashwant Varma at the Allahabad and Delhi High Courts should be reviewed to restore the public’s trust in the judiciary.”

The HCBA has also demanded impeachment proceedings, arguing that an independent investigation is necessary before any further judicial appointments.


Justice Yashwant Varma’s Response to Allegations

Justice Varma has denied all allegations, calling the cash discovery a conspiracy to tarnish his image. In a letter to Delhi HC Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, he clarified:

  • Neither he nor his family had any knowledge of the cash.
  • He believes the incident was a deliberate attempt to frame him.
  • The accusations are damaging his judicial credibility.

His supporters argue that judicial transfers should not be based on allegations without solid evidence.


Impact of the HCBA Strike

The indefinite strike by Allahabad HC lawyers is expected to:
Disrupt court proceedings, delaying pending cases.
Increase pressure on the judiciary to reconsider the transfer.
Set a precedent for how judicial allegations are handled.

The legal community remains divided, with some believing the transfer is justified, while others see it as an attack on judicial independence.


Judicial and Public Reaction

The controversy has sparked a broader debate about:

  • The process of judicial appointments and transfers.
  • The need for more transparency in handling allegations against judges.
  • Whether Justice Varma should be allowed to continue serving before the case is resolved.

Many are now watching closely to see if the Supreme Court will reconsider its decision in response to nationwide protests by legal professionals.

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