SC: In-house probe on, Justice Varma's transfer separate issue

DELHI FIRE CHIEF DENIES CASH DISCOVERY

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Following reports of an alleged cash discovery at the official residence of Delhi High Court Judge Yashwant Varma, the Supreme Court on Friday clarified that an in-house inquiry had been initiated against him. It also stated that his proposed transfer to the Allahabad High Court was unrelated to the controversy.

The purported discovery was linked to a fire that broke out at Justice Varma's Lutyens Delhi residence around 11:35 pm on March 14. Firefighters from the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) responded swiftly, extinguishing the blaze. However, DFS Chief Atul Garg denied claims that firefighters had discovered any cash at the scene. The exact amount allegedly recovered remains unknown.

The Supreme Court, addressing the reports, condemned the spread of "misinformation and rumours" regarding the judge's transfer. "There is misinformation and rumours being spread with regard to the incident at the residence of Justice Yashwant Varma. On receiving the information, the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court commenced the in-house enquiry procedure, collecting evidence and information," the Supreme Court stated in a press release.

The Supreme Court confirmed that the "reported incident" took place in Delhi.

Delhi High Court Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya, who initiated the inquiry prior to the Supreme Court Collegium's Thursday meeting, is expected to submit his report to Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna. "The report will be examined and processed for further and necessary action," the Supreme Court stated.