CBI Challenges Kejriwal, Sisodia Discharge in Delhi Liquor Policy Case

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Monday told the Delhi High Court that a trial court’s decision to discharge former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and others in the Delhi excise policy case was incorrect.

Challenging the lower court’s ruling, the investigating agency argued that the liquor policy case represents one of the largest corruption scandals and that there is sufficient evidence against the accused.

According to the CBI, several key pieces of evidence collected during the investigation were ignored when the trial court delivered its order.

Why Did the CBI Challenge the Court’s Order?

The CBI told the High Court that witness statements and documentary evidence gathered during the probe support its allegations in the excise policy case.

The agency argued that the discharge order overlooked important aspects of the investigation and therefore requires judicial reconsideration by the High Court.

Trial Court Found No Prima Facie Case

Last week, a special court in Delhi discharged several accused in the case, including Sisodia and Kejriwal, stating that the material presented by the prosecution did not establish a prima facie case of wrongdoing.

Special Judge Jitendra Singh observed that the evidence collected during the investigation failed to show policy concealment, unilateral decision-making or exclusion of constitutional authorities.

In a detailed 598-page order, the court said the records suggested that the policy was formulated through a process involving consultation, communication and administrative caution.

Court Examines Policy Context During COVID-19

The court also noted that the new excise policy was introduced during the economic strain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the order, government revenues had sharply declined due to lockdown restrictions, while spending obligations increased to address public health challenges.

The judge observed that the decision to adopt an auction-based model for liquor licences could not be separated from the financial pressures faced by the government at the time.

What Did the Court Say About the Liquor Policy Model?

The court emphasised that the prosecution had not alleged manipulation in the bidding process for retail liquor outlets.

It noted that there was no claim that bids were improperly structured, that eligibility rules were selectively relaxed, or that the allocation process had been compromised.

Instead, the court said the prosecution’s challenge appeared to be directed at the policy framework itself rather than the way it was implemented.

Case Involves Several Political Figures

The case filed by the CBI also names several other individuals, including K. Kavitha, president of Telangana Jagruthi, along with multiple other accused.

Investigators have alleged that irregularities took place during the formulation and implementation of the excise policy in Delhi.

What Happens Next in the Case?

With the appeal now filed, the Delhi High Court will examine whether the trial court correctly assessed the evidence presented by the CBI.

The High Court’s decision could determine whether the case proceeds to trial or whether the discharge order remains in force.