New Delhi: The Supreme Court’s in-house inquiry panel has confirmed that cash was, indeed, found at Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma’s residence during the fire on the night of March 14.
The report, which was submitted to Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, has been sent to Justice Varma.
The High Court judge, who has been in the eye of a storm, has been given two days to respond to the findings.
India Today reported, citing highly-placed sources, that Justice Varma has been given the option of resigning as a judge of Allahabad High Court.
If he refuses to put in his papers, impeachment process may be initiated against Justice Varma.
Significantly, CJI Khanna retires next week. He is learnt to be keen to take a decision regarding action on Justice Varma before he demits office.
The Supreme Court panel report details the timeline of the fire at Justice Varma’s residence on the night of March 14-15, which led to the discovery of burnt cash and emergency services’ response.
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The panel recorded statements of Justice Varma, his staff, fire officials and police officials who responded, including the Delhi Fire Services Chief and Delhi High Court Registrar, who arrived during the fire.
Among evidences collected were photos and videos of burnt currency notes, forensic analysis of evidence gathered by first responders, and visual documentation recorded by judges during their visit to the residence.
Also Read: Justice Varma Will Not Be Assigned Any Judicial Work In Allahabad HC
