Delhi Excise Case: Court Discharges Kejriwal, Sisodia; CBI to Appeal

In a major development in the Delhi excise policy case, the Rouse Avenue Court on Friday discharged former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia.

The case, investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), was linked to alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped 2021–22 Delhi excise policy. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had also conducted a parallel probe under money laundering laws.

What the Court Said

The trial court observed that the prosecution failed to establish a central conspiratorial role attributed to the two leaders. It stated that the allegations did not cross the legal threshold required to frame charges and proceed with trial.

The court further noted that there was no material showing criminal intent, particularly in Sisodia’s case. According to the order, the evidence presented was insufficient to justify moving ahead with a full trial.

CBI’s Response

Soon after the order, CBI officials indicated that the agency would challenge the discharge before the Delhi High Court.

Sources said the agency believes certain aspects of the investigation were either not adequately considered or require further judicial review. The appeal is expected to be filed shortly.

Kejriwal’s Reaction

Addressing supporters after the verdict, Kejriwal described the order as “historic” and said the court had found no evidence to justify even starting a trial.

He alleged that central agencies were “weaponised” against him and his party and demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah apologise to the country.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) termed the ruling a victory for truth and constitutional values. Supporters gathered outside Kejriwal’s residence and party office, distributing sweets and celebrating the court’s decision.

Political Reactions

AAP leaders said the verdict proved that the allegations had not stood up to judicial scrutiny.

On the other hand, BJP leaders maintained that the matter remains sub judice and pointed to the CBI’s decision to appeal. Union minister Sukanta Majumdar said it was a court matter and declined to comment extensively.

Opposition leaders from other parties also reacted, with some alleging misuse of investigative agencies for political purposes.

Background of the Case

The CBI had alleged that irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the excise policy caused financial loss and that Rs 100 crore was paid to influence decisions. A total of 23 individuals were chargesheeted in the case.

The defence argued that there was no direct incriminating material linking Kejriwal to the alleged conspiracy and that his name appeared only in a later supplementary chargesheet.

The court, after reviewing the evidence and submissions, concluded that the material on record did not justify proceeding to trial.

What Happens Next

With the CBI set to approach the Delhi High Court, the legal battle is not over. The High Court will now decide whether the trial court’s discharge order should stand or be set aside.

For now, the discharge marks a significant turning point in one of the most high-profile political investigations in recent years.