Delhi Police criticized for mishandling Justice Varma case

Former Delhi High Court judge Justice SN Dhingra criticized the Delhi Police for their mishandling of a controversial case involving Justice Yashwant Varma. He expressed doubt that a proper investigation would uncover the truth, given the police's actions. Justice Dhingra stated that the crime scene should have been secured right away. He noted that the outhouse and Justice Varma’s bungalow should have been sealed off, and a formal report filed. He raised several questions, including the whereabouts of burnt currency notes seen in a video and the authenticity of the video footage. He suggested that the Supreme Court might recommend an inquiry committee and potential impeachment for Justice Varma. However, he shared his skepticism about the success of any criminal proceedings due to existing legal protections and the nature of the evidence. In contrast, Yashovardhan Azad, a former special director of the Intelligence Bureau, defended the police's actions. He argued that they were limited in what they could do because the case involved a sitting judge, who has certain legal immunities. Justice Dhingra disagreed with this point. He asserted that immunity does not apply to crimes unrelated to a judge's official duties. He stated that Justice Varma bears responsibility for everything on his premises, including the outhouse. The case took a new turn when a sanitation worker claimed to have found burnt Rs 500 notes in trash outside Justice Varma's home after a recent festival. A three-judge panel is expected to review the case and submit their findings to the Supreme Court soon.