“Blackest Day In Indian Judicial System”: Allahabad HC Bar Association Criticises Transfer Of Justice Varma

The Allahabad High Court Bar Association has strongly opposed the transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court, calling it a “black day” for the Indian judiciary.

Controversy

Justice Yashwant Varma’s transfer comes amid allegations of unaccounted cash found at his New Delhi residence on March 14, 2025, following a fire. However, Justice Varma has denied any wrongdoing, stating that neither he nor his family members had placed the cash in the storeroom.

Bar Association President Anil Tiwari expressed strong disapproval, declaring, “March 28 is the blackest day in the Indian judicial system. A man facing corruption allegations is taking oath in the Allahabad High Court.”

Bar Association’s Despite Justice Varma taking his oath as a judge at the Allahabad High Court yesterday, the Bar Association boycotted the ceremony and raised concerns about his credibility.

“A common man is asking—if he could not uphold his oath in Delhi, will he do so in Allahabad? What will happen to public faith?” Tiwari questioned.

In protest, the affidavit centre at the High Court was shut down temporarily, though the Bar Association later decided to reopen it to prevent inconvenience to litigants.

Legal & Judicial Response

The Bar Association has scheduled a meeting at 4 PM today with senior advocates and former office bearers to discuss further steps in their protest.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court Collegium has intervened, directing that Justice Varma should not be assigned any cases at present. Bar Association President Anil Tiwari welcomed this decision, thanking the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and Collegium members for withdrawing Justice Varma’s judicial powers.

Earlier, the Supreme Court had advised the Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court to not assign any judicial work to Justice Varma upon his transfer.

Ongoing Strike

The Bar Association members have been on an indefinite strike, opposing the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendation for Justice Varma’s transfer. Despite their objections, the central government formally approved the transfer on Friday, March 28, 2025.

The situation remains tense as the legal fraternity continues to voice concerns over judicial integrity and public trust in the justice system.