Lawyers Protest Lack of Transparency in Judiciary
The Allahabad High Court Bar Association launched an indefinite strike on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in protest against the proposed transfer of Delhi High Court Justice Yashwant Varma to the Allahabad High Court.
Leading the protest at gate number 3 of the high court, Bar Association president Anil Tiwari clarified that the demonstration was not directed against any specific judge or court but against a system that, according to him, has failed to uphold transparency. “Our fight is against corruption and the lack of transparency in the judicial system. We demand a reconsideration and withdrawal of this transfer order,” he said.
Bar Association Stands Firm on Protest
The Bar Association had reiterated its opposition to Justice Varma’s transfer on Monday, March 24, and subsequently decided to commence the strike. Mr. Tiwari warned that the association was prepared for an extended battle. “From the very beginning, there has been an attempt to cover up this matter. Lawyers across India are now fighting this battle, and we will not resume work until this issue is resolved, no matter the consequences,” he stated.
Supreme Court Collegium Confirms Transfer Amid Allegations
The Supreme Court collegium, on March 24, confirmed its recommendation to transfer Justice Varma back to his parent Allahabad High Court. This decision follows an ongoing inquiry regarding the alleged discovery of a large sum of cash at his official residence in Lutyens Delhi. The alleged cash was found after a fire broke out at his residence on March 14, prompting fire officials to respond.
Following these developments, the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court took immediate action, including withdrawing judicial work from Justice Varma. The transfer recommendation was officially communicated to the Centre through a resolution uploaded on the Supreme Court’s website.
Justice Varma Denies Allegations, Calls It a Conspiracy
Justice Varma has firmly denied any involvement in the alleged cash discovery, stating that neither he nor his family had placed any money in his residence. He denounced the claims, calling them a conspiracy aimed at framing and maligning him. “I strongly reject the suggestion that the alleged cash belonged to me or my family members,” he asserted.
Justice Varma’s Judicial Career
Justice Varma enrolled as an advocate on August 8, 1992, and was appointed as an additional judge of the Allahabad High Court on October 13, 2014. He took oath as a permanent judge on February 1, 2016, before being elevated to the Delhi High Court on October 11, 2021.
As the protest continues, the legal fraternity remains divided over the issue, with many lawyers demanding greater transparency in judicial transfers and disciplinary proceedings.
