CBI to Appeal Delhi High Court After Rouse Avenue Court Acquits Kejriwal and Sisodia in Excise Policy Case
In a landmark ruling, the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi has discharged former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the high-profile Delhi Excise Policy case. The court determined that the prosecution failed to substantiate allegations of a central conspiratorial role and found no criminal intent, particularly in Sisodia's instance. This decision marks a pivotal moment in one of India's most closely watched political investigations, sparking intense reactions from political circles and legal experts alike.
Court's Verdict and Legal Grounds
The court explicitly stated that the accusations against Kejriwal and Sisodia failed judicial scrutiny, emphasizing that the conspiracy theory could not hold against constitutional authorities. It noted that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had not provided sufficient evidence to prove the alleged roles, with the defence successfully arguing that Kejriwal was not named in the initial chargesheets and lacked direct incriminating links.
Background of the Case and Allegations
The CBI had filed its first chargesheet in 2022, followed by multiple supplementary filings, alleging that a south lobby paid Rs 100 crore to influence the now-scrapped excise policy. In total, 23 individuals were chargesheeted, with the agency maintaining that the offence of criminal conspiracy should be viewed holistically and tested at trial. However, the defence, led by senior advocate N Hariharan, countered that Kejriwal's involvement only emerged in the fourth supplementary chargesheet, undermining the prosecution's narrative.
Political and Emotional Reactions
Following the verdict, Arvind Kejriwal became emotional, asserting his innocence and labeling the case a political conspiracy. He declared, "I am not corrupt. The court has said that Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia are honest." Manish Sisodia welcomed the decision, stating it as a triumph of truth and praising the Constitution. AAP leaders celebrated the ruling as a victory for constitutional values, while targeting the BJP leadership for what they described as a politically motivated campaign.
CBI's Decision to Challenge the Acquittal
Despite the court's ruling, the CBI has indicated its intention to challenge the discharge order before the Delhi High Court. Sources confirmed that the agency plans to file an appeal, ensuring the legal battle continues. This move underscores the ongoing tensions between investigative agencies and political figures in India's dynamic legal landscape.
Additional Developments and Recommendations
In related proceedings, the Rouse Avenue Court recommended a departmental inquiry against the investigating officer in the CBI's case, highlighting potential procedural issues. The family of Arvind Kejriwal warmly received him at his residence, alongside Manish Sisodia, as they returned following the acquittal. The case has drawn widespread attention, with updates including emotional statements from Kejriwal's wife on social media and a full list of the 23 accused who were discharged.
As the CBI prepares its appeal, this case remains a focal point in Indian politics, reflecting broader debates on justice, accountability, and the intersection of law and governance. The upcoming proceedings in the Delhi High Court are poised to further shape the narrative around this contentious issue.
