The Delhi High Court will hear the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) plea challenging the discharge of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a case related to the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 on May 11.
The CBI is contesting the trial court’s decision on March 8, 2024, which discharged Kejriwal and Sisodia, citing a lack of conclusive evidence linking them directly to the alleged irregularities in the policy’s implementation. The trial court noted the CBI failed to establish their involvement in the conspiracy or show they benefitted from the alleged illegal activities.
The case revolves around allegations of corruption and irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the excise policy, including undue favors granted to liquor vendors. The CBI alleges a conspiracy involving public servants, liquor businessmen, and individuals to manipulate the policy and cause loss to the government exchequer.
The trial court had, however, allowed the proceedings to continue against other accused individuals in the case. The CBI’s appeal focuses specifically on the discharge of Kejriwal and Sisodia, arguing the trial court overlooked crucial evidence and failed to properly appreciate the material presented.
The agency maintains that Kejriwal and Sisodia were actively involved in the decision-making process and were aware of the alleged illegal activities. They contend that the trial court’s decision was based on a flawed interpretation of the evidence.
The High Court’s decision on May 11 will be crucial as it will determine whether Kejriwal and Sisodia will face trial in the case. Currently, both are facing investigations and legal proceedings in connection with the excise policy matter, including by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Sisodia is currently in judicial custody, while Kejriwal was recently granted interim bail by the Supreme Court in a separate money laundering case linked to the excise policy.
