‘Do I Get Justice?’ Arvind Kejriwal Questions Judge’s Neutrality, Sparks Heated Courtroom Clash in Delhi Liquor Case

Kejriwal Raises Serious Question on Judicial Neutrality

Former Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal on Monday raised strong concerns over judicial neutrality during a hearing in the Delhi liquor policy case, seeking the recusal of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma.

He argued that there was a “reasonable apprehension of bias” due to the judge’s alleged participation in programmes linked to a lawyers’ body associated with the RSS.

Why Kejriwal Claimed Bias

Kejriwal told the court that even the perception of bias matters in justice delivery. He said that since he follows a different political ideology, any connection between the judge and ideological organisations created doubt in his mind about receiving a fair trial.

He stressed that his argument was not about proving actual bias but about maintaining public trust in the judiciary.

Heated Exchange Inside Courtroom

The hearing saw a sharp exchange between Kejriwal and Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma.

Kejriwal questioned whether repeated participation in certain programmes could create a perception of ideological influence. The judge responded that she would only record the arguments made in court.

The discussion became tense when Kejriwal said that such associations gave him the impression that fairness could be affected. The judge maintained that only official submissions would be considered.

Background of the Case

In earlier proceedings, a trial court had granted relief to Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and others in the liquor policy case. However, the CBI later challenged the discharge order.

The case has since seen multiple hearings, with arguments continuing over legal procedures and evidence evaluation.

Government and Legal Response

The Solicitor General opposed Kejriwal’s recusal plea, calling it baseless. The court has recorded all arguments, and the matter is still under judicial consideration.

Why did Kejriwal ask for the judge’s recusal?

He claimed there was a perceived bias due to alleged ideological associations.

What is the case about?

It is related to the Delhi liquor policy case being investigated by the CBI.

Did the court accept the recusal request?

No decision has been made yet; arguments have only been recorded.

What is the main legal issue?

The issue revolves around judicial neutrality and fairness in perception.