SC collegium moves to transfer Delhi HC judge Justice Yashwant Varma amid cash recovery row

The Supreme Court collegium on Friday initiated the process of transferring Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma to the Allahabad High Court following reports of a significant cash recovery from his official residence, reported PTI.

The five-member collegium, led by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, convened an urgent meeting after the alleged incident and decided to begin proceedings for Justice Varma’s transfer. However, the transfer will only take effect once the Centre approves the recommendation, which has not yet been officially sent.

Justice Varma, the second senior-most judge of the Delhi High Court, did not preside over court proceedings on Friday. His court master informed advocates about the absence, according to PTI. Meanwhile, a senior advocate brought the issue before Delhi High Court Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya, expressing concern over the developments.


Reports suggest that certain senior collegium members are advocating for stricter measures beyond the transfer. Some believe the collegium should seek Justice Varma’s resignation, and if refused, initiate an in-house inquiry, as outlined in previous Supreme Court rulings.

The matter gained attention after government officials reportedly informed the apex court about the cash recovery following a fire at Justice Varma’s residence. While the exact amount remains undisclosed, senior advocate Indira Jaising posted on X, urging the collegium to reveal the sum to curb speculation.

Justice Varma, born on January 6, 1969, began his judicial career as an additional judge of the Allahabad High Court in 2014. He became a permanent judge in 2016 before being appointed to the Delhi High Court in 2021. He was enrolled as an advocate on August 8, 1992.

The collegium is expected to take further action if necessary, as discussions over the next steps continue.

(With inputs from PTI)