Firestorm after blaze unearths stashed cash at judge’s house
The Bar Association’s statement, titled “We Are Not a Trash Bin,” criticized the transfer and raised concerns about the judiciary’s credibility. Meanwhile, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court, challenging the three-member committee formed by the CJI to investigate the matter and seeking the registration of an FIR against Justice Varma. This controversy has intensified debates about judicial accountability and transparency.
Key events and timeline
March 14, 2025:
A fire broke out at around 11:30 p.m. in a storeroom near the office at 30, Tughlak Crescent, New Delhi, the official residence of Justice Varma. A PCR call was made at 11:43 p.m. by his private secretary, but no separate call was made to the fire department. Justice Varma was in Bhopal at the time, while his daughter and his elderly mother were at home.
March 15, 2025:
The Commissioner of Police, Delhi, informed Delhi High Court Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya about the fire and the discovery of burnt cash in sacks. The prima facie cause was determined to be a short circuit.
Chief Justice Upadhyaya was in Lucknow at the time but later briefed CJI Khanna in the evening.
Justice Varma returned to Delhi.
The Registrar-cum-Secretary to Chief Justice Upadhyaya visited the scene, accompanied by Justice Varma.
March 16, 2025:
The Registrar-cum-Secretary submitted an inspection report detailing the burnt remains in the storeroom.
The Commissioner of Police reported that a security guard claimed debris and half-burnt articles had been removed that morning.
Chief Justice Upadhyaya returned to Delhi and met CJI Khanna.
March 17, 2025:
Chief Justice Upadhyaya met Justice Varma at the Delhi High Court Guest House.
Justice Varma insisted that the storeroom was used for discarded household items and was accessible to various staff members, including gardeners and CPWD personnel.
Chief Justice Upadhyaya showed Justice Varma photographs and videos from the Commissioner of Police, prompting Varma to suggest a conspiracy against him.
March 20, 2025:
Chief Justice Upadhyaya shared evidence, including photos and a video, with CJI Khanna.
The Supreme Court Collegium decided to transfer Justice Varma to the Allahabad High Court.
Chief Justice Upadhyaya agreed to the transfer, stating it was in the “interest of better administration of justice.”
March 21, 2025:
The story was reported in the media.
