Amidst controversy over alleged cash recovery during a fire at his residence, Delhi High Court Justice Yashwant Varma has firmly denied all allegations, calling them an attempt to malign him. In his detailed response to Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, he has outlined five key points in his defence:
1. No Burnt Cash Was Ever Shown to Anyone
Justice Varma emphasizes that neither he nor his family, household staff, or personal security (PS) were shown any recovered or seized cash. He maintains that no such sacks of burnt currency were visible when the site was returned to them.
“When they accessed the storeroom, there was no currency—burnt or otherwise—to be seen.”
His staff also confirmed that no currency was removed from the premises, and the Chief of Fire Service reportedly stated that fire personnel did not see any cash at the site.
2. The Fire Broke Out in an Unlocked, Commonly Used Storeroom
The judge clarifies that the fire occurred in an outhouse storeroom, not in his living quarters. This room, used for storing general household items, was unlocked and accessible from both the front gate and staff quarters.
“The suggestion that one would store cash in an open, freely accessible storeroom near staff quarters is incredulous.”
He categorically denies storing cash in the room, questioning the logic of keeping large sums in an unsecured space.
3. No Mention of Cash in the Official Report by HC Chief Justice’s PPS
Justice Varma highlights that the Registrar cum Secretary (PPS) to the Delhi High Court Chief Justice inspected the site on March 15 but did not mention any cash recovery in his report.
“When I, my PS, and the PPS inspected the gutted room, no currency was found or seen in any state on site.”
This omission, he argues, supports his claim that the allegations are baseless.
4. Allegations Appear to Be Part of a Larger Conspiracy
The judge points to past social media allegations in December 2024 about an old FIR registered in 2018 as part of a deliberate effort to frame him.
“This entire episode appears to be a continuation of events aimed at maligning me, as was the case with unfounded allegations that circulated on social media.”
He also recalls expressing his concerns to the Chief Justice immediately after seeing the video, suspecting it was staged.
5. Calls for Inquiry to Establish His Integrity
In a final move to clear his name, Justice Varma has requested an official inquiry into his judicial conduct.
“I would be grateful if an inquiry is made regarding my functioning as a judge and the perception of the legal fraternity about my integrity.”
What’s Next?
With the Supreme Court’s in-house probe underway, Justice Varma’s claims will be assessed in light of the evidence. The case raises crucial questions about judicial accountability, due process, and the possibility of a larger conspiracy at play.
