Prayagraj, April 5: Justice Yashwant Varma was sworn in as a judge of the Allahabad High Court on Saturday in a private ceremony, a departure from the usual tradition of public swearing-in events. This decision has attracted significant attention, especially given the circumstances surrounding his induction.
This development follows an ongoing investigation into allegations that semi-burnt sacks of cash were found at Justice Varma’s residence just weeks before the swearing-in. Despite being formally inducted into the court, sources report that Justice Varma has not been assigned any judicial or administrative duties as of now.
The controversy surrounding his appointment intensified after his transfer from the Delhi High Court to Allahabad. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed before the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court called for the postponement of his swearing-in ceremony until the inquiry into the cash seizure was concluded.
The legal community has expressed outrage over the situation. The Allahabad High Court Bar Association has voiced its strong opposition to the Collegium's decision, criticizing it in a letter to the Chief Justice and fellow judges. The association condemned the appointment, stating, "We aren’t a trash bin," and emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in judicial appointments.
As the investigation continues, the future of Justice Varma’s role in the Allahabad High Court remains uncertain. Legal experts and observers are closely watching the developments, which have raised larger concerns about judicial integrity and the processes governing judicial appointments in India.
