New Delhi | June 20, 2025
An independent judicial inquiry panel has delivered a damning report on Justice Yashwant Varma, criticising his response to a fire incident at his government residence and rejecting his claims of a conspiracy. The panel, formed by the Supreme Court of India, concluded that Justice Varma’s conduct was “unnatural,” particularly in light of the discovery of large sums of partially burnt currency on the premises.
Incident Background
On the night of March 14, 2025, a fire broke out in the servant quarters attached to the official bungalow allotted to Justice Varma in Delhi. While the fire was being controlled, firefighters reportedly discovered bundles of cash, many of which were burnt or partially damaged, stored in a locked room.
The startling recovery led to questions about the source of the money, the reason for it being stored in such a location, and why no prior disclosure was made.
Key Observations of the Inquiry Committee
The three-member panel, comprising senior high court judges from different jurisdictions, closely examined the sequence of events and found inconsistencies in Justice Varma’s explanations:
• Delay in Visiting the Scene: Despite arriving in Delhi the next day, Justice Varma did not inspect the scene until late in the evening of March 15, which the panel found “puzzling” and “illogical” for someone facing potential sabotage.
• No Police Complaint Filed: Although Justice Varma suggested that someone might have deliberately planted the cash and caused the fire, he never filed a police complaint nor raised alarm with constitutional authorities.
• Missing Surveillance Data: While the judge claimed CCTV footage was unavailable due to a technical failure, the panel noted that the equipment remained unsealed for several days, suggesting a window during which evidence could have been compromised.
• Quick Acceptance of Transfer: Justice Varma’s immediate acceptance of a transfer to the Allahabad High Court shortly after the incident was also flagged as inconsistent with the claim of being targeted or framed.
No Evidence of Conspiracy
Justice Varma maintained that he was the victim of a malicious attempt to tarnish his reputation. However, the inquiry panel found no evidence of external involvement, nor any credible narrative explaining why such a conspiracy would be carried out. The panel stated that the burden of explaining the cash’s presence rested solely on the judge, given the location and circumstances of recovery.
Recommendations
In light of the findings, the panel has recommended initiation of constitutional proceedings for removal, citing breach of judicial ethics and loss of public confidence. The report has been forwarded to the Chief Justice of India and is expected to be placed before the Rajya Sabha, as required under Article 124(4) of the Constitution for initiating impeachment proceedings.
