CBI Labels Liquor Policy Case as 'National Shame' in Delhi High Court Plea
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday described the Delhi liquor policy case as "one of the biggest scams in the history of the national capital" and urged the Delhi High Court to overturn the discharge of all 23 accused individuals. This group includes former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, marking a significant escalation in the legal battle surrounding the now-scrapped excise policy.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta's Arguments in Court
Appearing on behalf of the CBI, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta characterized the case as a "national shame" and criticized the special trial court for what he termed an "acquittal without trial." Mehta argued that the court had disregarded the agency's meticulous and scientific investigation, effectively turning criminal law on its head. He emphasized that the CBI had collected extensive evidence to demonstrate a conspiracy and bribery scheme linked to the manipulated liquor policy.
Key Legal Contentions by the CBI
In its written submissions, the CBI highlighted several critical points:
- The special court allegedly discarded crucial evidence, including statements from approvers and witnesses recorded under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).
- The agency contended that the veracity of such testimonies should be established during the trial phase, not at the stage of framing charges.
- The CBI argued that the court departed from established legal principles by requiring independent corroboration for approver statements at the charge-framing stage, a standard typically applied only during conviction.
Mehta requested the High Court to set a time schedule for hearing the CBI's plea, stressing that portions of the trial court's discharge order were factually incorrect and undermined the prosecution's case.
Allegations Against AAP Communication In-Charge Vijay Nair
The CBI specifically cited the alleged role of Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) communication in-charge, Vijay Nair, accusing him of coordinating bribe acceptances ranging from Rs 19 crore to Rs 100 crore in exchange for favors under the excise policy. This allegation forms a core part of the agency's argument that a well-orchestrated conspiracy was in place.
Background of the Case and Trial Court's Ruling
Special Judge Jitendra Singh last month discharged all accused in the case, which was originally lodged by the CBI on August 17, 2022. The court concluded that the prosecution failed to meet the minimum legal threshold required for framing charges, finding no prima facie case or grave suspicion against any of the individuals involved. This decision has now been challenged by the CBI, setting the stage for a high-stakes legal review in the Delhi High Court.
