Delhi Police Seals Judge Yashwant Varma’s Storeroom, Investigates Fire Incident
New Delhi, 27th March 2025: Delhi Police on Wednesday sealed the storeroom at the official residence of Justice Yashwant Varma and conducted videography of the site, nearly 12 days after a fire incident raised suspicions of foul play, including allegations that a large sum of cash was destroyed in the blaze.
As part of their investigation, police officials have also collected footage from nearby CCTV cameras to determine any unauthorized entry. However, preliminary analysis has not revealed any signs of forced intrusion. “Some of the cameras do not directly face the entrance, which has limited our ability to track movements in and out of the premises,” said a police source familiar with the probe.
In a parallel inquiry, two Additional Commissioners from the Special Branch and Special Cell have compiled a detailed report—spanning 30 to 40 pages—analyzing call records and internet activity linked to Justice Varma’s mobile phone. This report is expected to be submitted to the Supreme Court’s inquiry commission.
On Thursday afternoon, a police team, led by DCP Devesh Mahla and ACP Virender Jain, arrived at the judge’s residence in Tughlak Crescent Road. Accompanied by a videography team, the officials spent nearly two hours documenting the storeroom before sealing it.
The fire, which erupted at around 11:15 PM on March 14, was classified as minor by the fire department. Despite this, first responders, including police officers and firefighters, remained at the location for about two hours. “Our primary goal was to ensure safety and assess any damage. We have provided our observations to the inquiry panel,” said an official from the fire department.
The investigation team has also recorded statements from first responders, including the judge’s personal security officer. The fire was first reported through a PCR call made by Justice Varma’s personal assistant. Following this, five officers from Tughlaq Road police station inspected the storeroom and recorded videos on their mobile phones. A senior officer has now instructed them to submit these devices for forensic examination.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with both the Delhi Police and fire department conducting independent inquiries. Authorities are expected to submit their findings in the coming days.
