Kejriwal Raises Conflict of Interest in High Court Recusal Plea
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has submitted a formal affidavit in the Delhi High Court, making a significant claim regarding a potential conflict of interest. In his legal filing, Kejriwal asserts that the children of Justice Sharma are empanelled as lawyers for the central government. This revelation comes as part of a plea seeking the judge's recusal from a related case.
Allegations of Professional Links to Government
The affidavit details that these empanelled lawyers receive their professional assignments and cases through Solicitor General Tushar Mehta. It is crucial to note that Tushar Mehta himself has appeared in court representing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in matters connected to this legal proceeding. This connection forms the core of Kejriwal's argument for judicial recusal.
The timing of this disclosure is particularly sensitive, as it raises questions about impartiality within the judiciary when family members of a sitting judge have professional ties to a party involved in litigation. Legal experts suggest that such scenarios, while not uncommon, require careful scrutiny to uphold the principles of natural justice and avoid any appearance of bias.
Context of the Legal Battle
This development occurs within a broader context of ongoing legal battles between the Delhi government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party, and central agencies. The affidavit was formally presented to the court on April 15, 2026, marking a new chapter in these protracted disputes. Kejriwal's legal team emphasized the necessity for transparency and the absolute integrity of judicial proceedings.
The court has yet to issue a formal response or ruling on this recusal plea. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, as the outcome could set a precedent for how similar allegations of potential conflicts are handled in the Indian judicial system. The case underscores the delicate balance between judicial independence and the need for public confidence in legal institutions.
