Introduction
The Allahabad High Court Bar Association has strongly opposed the decision of the Supreme Court Collegium to transfer Justice Yashwant Verma, a judge of the Delhi High Court, back to the Allahabad High Court. The protest is due to the allegations of unaccounted cash being recovered from his residence, which has led to a major controversy in the legal community.
Bar Association takes a strong stand against the transfer
The Bar Association issued a press statement expressing its disappointment over the Collegium’s recommendation. The association’s president Anil Tiwari made a strong remark, saying, “The Allahabad High Court is not a garbage dump where anything can be sent.” He further stressed that corrupt persons will not be accepted and warned that if necessary, the operation of the Court may be stopped in protest.
Details of alleged cash recovery
Reports indicate that unaccounted cash of about ₹15 crore was recovered from Justice Verma’s residence. The money was reportedly found after a fire broke out in his house, prompting the fire brigade to act, inadvertently unearthing the hidden money. The incident has raised serious concerns about corruption within the judiciary.
Supreme Court’s response to the situation
Following the revelation, the Supreme Court launched an internal inquiry into the matter. The Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court has also been asked to provide clarifications about the issue. Additionally, the Supreme Court Collegium recommended Justice Verma’s transfer to the Allahabad High Court, a decision that has been strongly opposed by the Bar Association.
Concerns over judicial integrity and public trust
The Bar Association has questioned whether this transfer indicates that the Allahabad High Court is being treated as a place to send controversial individuals. The association pointed to existing issues within the court, including a shortage of judges, delays in hearing cases, and a lack of new appointments.
Shortage of Judges
The Allahabad High Court is facing a severe shortage of judges, affecting its ability to dispose of new cases promptly. This has eroded public confidence in the judicial system.
Allegations of corruption and mismanagement
The association has highlighted that new judges are being appointed from the bar, but the selection process lacks transparency. This has raised concerns of inefficiency and corruption, thereby damaging the reputation of the judiciary.
Historical Context: Past Observations on the Allahabad High Court
The Supreme Court has previously criticised the state of the Allahabad High Court, even remarking that “something is wrong with the Allahabad High Court.” This statement reflects deep concerns about the functioning and administration of justice in one of India’s oldest and largest high courts.
Call for transparency and judicial reforms
The Bar Association has stressed the need for:
- Transparent appointment process
- Strong anti-corruption measures
- Enhanced judicial accountability
The Association also raised concerns about a possible attempt to divide the judiciary and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public confidence in the legal system.
General House meeting scheduled for March 24
Given the situation, the Bar Association has called an urgent General House meeting on March 24 at 1:15 pm in the Association’s Library Hall. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss further action and a possible indefinite strike if necessary.
Conclusion
The controversy over the transfer of Justice Yashwant Verma has once again brought judicial integrity to the centre stage. The opposition to the move by the Allahabad High Court Bar Association highlights broader concerns about corruption, judicial transparency and the need for reforms in India’s legal system. As the case progresses, the legal fraternity will be closely watching how the Supreme Court addresses these concerns.