Cash Recovery Row: Justice Yashwant Varma Hides Identity, Names Himself 'XXX' In SC Petition

Justice Yashwant Varma, embroiled in a controversy after bundles of cash were discovered at his official residence in Delhi, has approached the Supreme Court. He filed a petition under the anonymised title "XXX vs Union of India," challenging an inquiry panel's findings and the recommendation for his removal by the then Chief Justice of India. The use of "XXX" is typically reserved for cases involving minors or sexual assault survivors.

The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Augustine George Masih, is set to hear this matter today. Justice Varma's plea argues that the inquiry committee unfairly shifted the burden of proof onto him, alleging bias and a "preconceived narrative" that undermined procedural fairness. The petition claims adverse conclusions were drawn without providing him a fair chance to defend himself.

Anonymity in Legal Proceedings

The practice of using anonymised titles like "XXX" aims to protect identities in sensitive cases. The Supreme Court has previously mandated such protection for petitioners' identities, even extending it to judgments. Justice Varma's decision to file under this title highlights concerns about privacy and fairness in legal proceedings.

The civil writ petition was filed on July 17 and registered by the Supreme Court on July 24 after necessary procedural corrections. It is listed as the 699th petition of the year, with the Centre named as the first respondent and the Supreme Court as the second.

Inquiry Panel Findings

A three-judge panel led by Chief Justice Sheel Nagu from Punjab and Haryana High Court conducted a 10-day investigation into a fire incident at Justice Varma's residence on March 14. During their probe, they examined 55 witnesses and visited the site where half-burnt cash was found in a storeroom.

The panel concluded that Justice Varma and his family had control over the area where the cash was discovered, establishing grounds for misconduct warranting removal. Based on these findings, then Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna recommended impeachment proceedings against Justice Varma to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Justice Varma's plea challenges these conclusions, arguing that he was not given a full opportunity to present his case. He claims that procedural fairness was compromised due to bias within the inquiry process.