Allahabad HC lawyers declare indefinite strike over Justice Varma's transfer
25 Mar 2025

The Allahabad HC Bar Association has called for an indefinite strike in protest against the Supreme Court Collegium's decision to transfer Justice Yashwant Varma from Delhi HC to Allahabad HC.

The Bar Association has sought intervention from the Central Government and demanded an immediate reversal of the decision.

The association said it is seeking to protect "the dignity of the Hon'ble Allahabad High Court."

Bar Association's resolution and future actions
Resolution

A resolution passed by the Bar Association said, "In the General Assembly of the Allahabad High Court Bar Association held today... a proposal was passed unanimously stating that we will strongly oppose the current transfer of Hon'ble Justice Shri Yashwant Varma."

The body has declared it will boycott all judicial work till further orders.

It has also warned members of action if they resume work despite the strike.

Justice Varma's transfer amid cash discovery allegations
Controversy

The Supreme Court Collegium recommended the transfer of Justice Varma, who is currently being investigated after allegedly finding a huge cash stash from his Delhi official residence, on Monday.

The probe into the case was taken up by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna on a report by Delhi HC Chief Justice DK Upadhyay, who suggested that the matter required further investigation.

Bar Association's commitment to the cause
Determination

Anil Tiwari, Allahabad High Court Bar Association President, said they would keep fighting the issue till the end.

"Even if we have to sacrifice our lives...we are ready to do so...If we have to go to jail, we are ready for that too."

Tiwari also announced plans of lawyers from 22 organizations who would support the protest.

The Bar Association has asked the government to intervene, stating that the "entire democracy is being put at stake to save a judge."

Justice Varma claims conspiracy behind cash discovery
Demands

In his defense, Justice Varma has refuted all allegations, claiming that the accusations are a conspiracy to malign and frame him.

He explained that the fire had broken out at an outhouse in the compound, which was used as a general dump room for disused articles and other sundry household articles.

"It is a room which is completely disassociated from my living areas and a boundary wall demarcates my living area from that outhouse," he said.