Justice Varma case: The high-level enquiry panel investigating the March 14 fire at the residence of Delhi’s High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma has raised concerns over Delhi Police and fire officials handling the incident. As reported by The Indian Express, the panel specifically asked why allegedly burnt cash was not seized from the site and why a video clip, which was recorded by first responders, was deleted.
Panel was informed that legal protocol blocked immediate action
Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, DCP Devesh Mahala, and Delhi Fire Services chief Atul Garg confirmed in front of the three-panel that cash was found in the room where the fire ignited. However, they stated no seizure was made because of legal constraints. They stated that judges of the High Court and Supreme Court cannot be probed without the Chief Justice of India’s (CJI) the prior approval.
The panel was informed that due process was followed by police personnel by escalating the matter to their seniors, who then informed the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, in accordance with legal requirements, as reported by The Indian Express.
The panel was also told that the video clip capturing burnt cash was deleted from phones of the first responders due to orders from senior officials, reportedly to stop misuse or leaks. A source told to The Indian Express that the panel was informed that this was done ”to ensure the video did not fall into the wrong hands.”
Justice Verma denied presence of cash at his residence
Justice Varma, in his written statement submitted to the Delhi High Court Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya, refused any knowledge of cash at the scene. He stated that all household members were moved away from the fire for safety, and when they returned , ”no cash or currency was seen at the site.”
The enquiry committee, consisting of Justices Sheel Nagu, Anu Sivaraman, and GS Sandhawalia, has recorded statements from a dozen people. Among them are staff, CRPF personnel, firefighters and staff.
Justice Varma was transferred to the Allahabad High Court and took oath on April 5.
