Justice Yashwant Varma finds himself at the center of a deepening controversy following the alleged discovery of burnt currency at his residence. The incident has led to his judicial work being suspended by the Supreme Court, which has now constituted a three-judge inquiry panel to investigate the matter. However, several crucial questions remain unanswered, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the case.
One of the most fundamental mysteries is the exact amount of cash found. While videos taken immediately after the fire reportedly showed half-burnt currency notes, authorities have yet to disclose an official figure. This lack of transparency has fueled speculation and concern over the investigation’s handling. Additionally, there is no clarity on where the recovered cash is now. Reports suggest that some half-burnt notes were removed from the storeroom on the morning of March 15, but conflicting statements from the Delhi Police and Justice Varma himself leave the whereabouts of the cash unknown.
The question of who removed the burnt money also remains unresolved. A security guard reportedly informed the police about debris and burnt items being cleared from the site, but there is no official record of who took the cash or whether it was properly documented. This raises the possibility of crucial evidence being destroyed or tampered with. Furthermore, conflicting statements regarding access to the storeroom add another layer of complexity. While Justice Varma has claimed that the room was accessible to “all and sundry,” the Delhi High Court’s preliminary findings indicate that access was limited to residents, domestic staff, and CPWD personnel. This contradiction raises serious doubts about how such a significant sum of money could remain undetected until the fire incident.
Adding to the intrigue, Justice Varma has alleged that he is the victim of a conspiracy aimed at maligning his reputation. However, he has not named any individuals or groups he believes to be behind this alleged plot. With his judicial duties suspended and a high-level inquiry underway, the case has taken on even greater significance, as the motive and potential perpetrators remain unclear.
Another contentious aspect of the case is the timing of Justice Varma’s proposed transfer to the Allahabad High Court. On March 20, Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud suggested the transfer, just days after the controversy broke. The Supreme Court later issued a statement asserting that the decision was independent of the investigation, but the close timing of both developments has led to speculation about whether the two are connected.
As the Supreme Court’s inquiry progresses, these unanswered questions continue to fuel debate and concern. The findings of the three-judge panel will be crucial in determining whether this case is a matter of legal misconduct, an orchestrated attack on a sitting judge, or a more complex web of hidden motives. Until then, Justice Varma remains at the center of a storm that shows no signs of settling anytime soon.
