The Allahabad High Court Bar Association has launched an indefinite strike in protest against the proposed transfer of Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma to the Allahabad High Court. The move comes amid controversy surrounding the alleged discovery of huge cash at Justice Varma’s official residence after a fire incident.
Bar Association President Anil Tiwari, leading the demonstration at gate number 3 of the court, clarified that the protest is not directed at any court or judge but at those who have, according to him, betrayed the judicial system. “Our fight is against corruption and lack of transparency. We demand a complete reconsideration and withdrawal of the transfer order,” he said.
The Supreme Court collegium, headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, confirmed its recommendation to transfer Justice Varma, whose judicial work was withdrawn following the cash allegations, to his parent Allahabad High Court. This recommendation was made public in a resolution on the apex court’s website.
The alleged cash recovery occurred after a fire broke out at Justice Varma’s Lutyens Delhi residence on March 14. Although judicial work has been withdrawn from him, Justice Varma has “unequivocally” denied any involvement and called the accusations a conspiracy aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
Tiwari stressed that the lawyers are prepared for a prolonged battle, declaring, “Until a resolution is reached, we will not resume work, no matter the consequences.”
