In a significant move, the Central Government of India announced the transfer of three high court judges, including Justice Yashwant Varma, to the Allahabad High Court. This decision was made public on Friday, March 28, 2025.
However the Supreme Court has directed that no Judicial Work be assigned to Justice Varma, till further orders.
Controversial Transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma
Justice Yashwant Varma recently found himself at the center of controversies following a fire incident at his Delhi residence on March 14, which allegedly led to the discovery of a substantial amount of cash. Following the incident, the Supreme Court set up a three-member committee to investigate the allegations. In the interim, the Delhi High Court withdrew all judicial duties from Justice Varma.
The Supreme Court collegium had recommended his reassignment back to his original court, the Allahabad High Court, on March 24. However, this move has faced opposition from the Allahabad High Court Bar Association, calling it an “assault on the judiciary’s integrity,” and demanded a review of his past judgments.
Transfers of Justice Arindam Sinha and C.D. Singh
Justice Arindam Sinha from the Odisha High Court, known for his impartial approach and effective rulings, and Justice C.D. Singh from the Delhi High Court, have also been transferred to the Allahabad High Court. These transfers are considered part of regular administrative procedures.
Constitutional and Judicial Implications
The transfers were conducted under Article 222(1) of the Constitution, which allows the President to transfer a judge from one high court to another after consultation with the Chief Justice of India.
This reshuffling is seen as administratively significant but has also sparked discussions within the legal community, particularly regarding the implications for the judiciary at the Allahabad High Court. The legal fraternity is keenly observing how these changes will impact judicial proceedings and the broader implications for judicial integrity and transparency.
