Controversy Over Judge's Cash Scandal: Calls for Review and Implications for Judiciary Integrity

The Allahabad High Court Bar Association is demanding a review of all verdicts by Justice Yashwant Varma, amid a cash-discovery controversy. Legal experts label this demand as premature, emphasizing the necessity of concrete findings from ongoing investigations before any impeachment or verdict reviews.

Legal experts voiced strong criticism on Monday against the Allahabad High Court Bar Association's demand to review all verdicts rendered by Justice Yashwant Varma, which they termed as 'preposterous' and 'unjustified'. The demand comes as Justice Varma is embroiled in a controversy concerning a significant cash discovery at his Delhi residence.

In light of the allegations, the Supreme Court collegium has recommended Justice Varma's transfer back to the Allahabad High Court while an in-house inquiry led by a three-member committee, constituted by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, is underway. Senior legal figures argue that any impeachment or review of judgments should be grounded in established findings, not allegations.

Prominent advocates, including Ajit Sinha, Gopal Sankaranarayanan, and Kamini Lau, criticized the bar association's petition as premature, stressing that judicial integrity requires due process and adherence to constitutional procedures. Meanwhile, Justice Varma's judicial work remains suspended pending investigation outcomes.

(With inputs from agencies.)