The inquiry committee probing allegations against Justice Yashwant Varma has found the charges related to the recovery of cash from his official residence to be substantiated.
The allegations include the recovery of a large amount of unaccounted cash, serious lapses in preserving evidence and unsatisfactory, evasive responses by the judge during the inquiry.
According to the committee’s report, a substantial quantity of ₹500 notes was found in the storeroom of Justice Varma’s official residence at 30, Tughlak Crescent in New Delhi.
The judge could not provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the presence, source or ownership of the cash. The committee therefore held the first charge proved.
Panel flags serious lapses in evidence preservation
The committee also found serious lapses in the handling and preservation of physical evidence.
It noted that the condition of the storeroom was altered before it was legally sealed and examined.
The report also said there was no satisfactory explanation for some currency notes that were subsequently found to be missing or unavailable. However, it did not establish that Justice Varma himself had removed the missing notes.
Committee finds judge’s responses evasive
The panel also upheld the third charge concerning Justice Varma’s responses during the inquiry.
It specifically referred to his March 22, 2025 response, describing it as “unsatisfactory and evasive”.
The committee said his response lacked the institutional responsibility and clarity expected in the circumstances.
The findings were based on statements from independent government witnesses and other evidence presented before the committee.
The committee has submitted its final report, along with relevant documents, evidence and the record of proceedings, to the competent authority. Further action will be taken in accordance with the law.
