The probe into the alleged cash recovery from the residence of Delhi High Court Judge Justice Yashwant Varma has intensified, with the statement of Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora being recorded on Friday, April 4.
This development comes as part of an ongoing inquiry being conducted by a three-judge committee, constituted by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, to investigate the matter. Earlier on the same day, Devesh Kumar Mahala, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi district), was also questioned for approximately four hours.
The proceedings were held at the Haryana State Guest House in Chanakyapuri, where statements were also taken from the Additional DCP (New Delhi district) and ACP (Chanakyapuri).
Background of the Controversy
The controversy began after a fire broke out on March 14 at Justice Varma’s official residence at 30, Tughlak Crescent, New Delhi. During the fire-fighting efforts, heaps of partially burnt currency notes were allegedly discovered, sparking widespread speculation and concern.
Since then, the panel has been recording testimonies from multiple individuals connected to the incident.
Key Witnesses and Evidence
On Wednesday, the panel recorded statements from three domestic workers employed at Justice Varma’s residence. In total, the committee has now documented the testimonies of five police officers who were among the first responders to the fire scene.
In addition, statements have been taken from:
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Atul Garg, Director of Delhi Fire Services
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Three firefighters present at the scene
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Three personal security staff of Justice Varma
The Delhi Police has also submitted a comprehensive report to Delhi High Court Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, including:
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Details of all security personnel posted at the residence in the last six months
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Call Detail Records (CDRs) of Justice Varma for the same period
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Internet Protocol Detail Records (IPDRs) of his digital communications
This data was shared upon request from the Chief Justice’s office, following directions from the CJI.
High-Level Judicial Oversight
As part of the inquiry, the panel members—Justice Sheel Nagu (Chief Justice of Punjab & Haryana High Court), Justice GS Sandhawalia (Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court), and Justice Anu Sivaraman (Judge, Karnataka High Court)—visited Justice Varma’s residence on March 25 to inspect the premises firsthand.
The investigation is ongoing, with the judicial committee expected to submit a detailed report upon completion of all testimonies and evidence review.