On Friday, the Allahabad High Court Bar Association strongly opposed the Supreme Court Collegium’s decision to transfer Delhi High Court Judge, Justice Yashwant Varma, back to the Allahabad High Court following allegations of unaccounted cash recovery from his residence. The Bar Association expressed serious concerns over the move, questioning whether the Allahabad High Court was being treated as a ‘trash bin’ for controversial appointments.
The controversy arose after reports emerged regarding a substantial sum of cash allegedly found at Justice Varma’s residence. It was stated that the recovery was made unintentionally when fire brigade officials entered the premises during a fire emergency. Following this, the Supreme Court Collegium recommended his repatriation to the Allahabad High Court, leading to widespread discontent among members of the Bar.
The Bar Association, in a press statement, condemned the transfer, arguing that such decisions affect the integrity of the judiciary. The Association President, Anil Tiwari, emphasized that the Allahabad High Court should not be treated as a place to accommodate judges facing serious allegations. He further stated that lawyers would take stringent measures, including suspending court work if necessary, to oppose the decision.
Raising larger concerns about judicial appointments, the Association pointed out that despite a shortage of judges in the Allahabad High Court, no new appointments had been made for years. It also criticized the lack of consultation with the Bar while appointing judges from the legal fraternity. The Association reiterated that any compromise on judicial eligibility standards leads to corruption, eroding public trust in the legal system.
The Bar body also referred to past observations by the Supreme Court regarding the Allahabad High Court, recalling remarks that indicated concerns over its functioning. It warned against any attempt to weaken or divide the institution and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the judiciary.
In response to these developments, the Bar Association has scheduled an emergency General House meeting on March 24 at 1:15 PM in the Library Hall to deliberate on further action.
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