Prayagraj, 05 April (HS): The High

Court Bar Association has criticized the Allahabad High Court's clandestine

oath-taking ceremony for Justice Yashwant Varma, which occurred amid

cash-at-home suspicions. They contend

that it reduces faith in the judiciary.

An investigation into the event involving seized cash notes is

ongoing. On Saturday, Justice Yashwant

Varma was administered the oath of office in a clandestine way at the Allahabad

High Court, sparking controversy. The

High Court Bar Association (HCBA) has denounced the action, calling it a

violation of precedent and a potential deterioration of public faith in the

judiciary. The oath-taking follows

reports about the seizure of semi-burnt bags of money from Justice Varma's

apartment, which prompted an in-house investigation ordered by the Chief

Justice of India.

The HCBA has expressed its concern,

claiming that the oath was not informed to the Bar or other judges, undermining

the judiciary's openness and accountability. The episode has rekindled

arguments about judicial responsibility, with the Bar Association advising the

Chief Justice not to delegate any work to Justice Varma. They further stated that such ceremonies

should usually be done in open court to ensure institutional confidence and

integrity. The HCBA has issued a

resolution denouncing the occurrence and urging for compliance with

constitutional principles.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi