Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday hailed the recusal of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma from the liquor policy case, asserting that truth has triumphed. The development comes as a significant turn in the high-profile case involving alleged irregularities in the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22.
Kejriwal's Reaction
In a statement, Kejriwal said, "Truth has triumphed. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma's decision to recuse herself from the liquor policy case is a welcome step. It shows that the judiciary is committed to fairness and impartiality." He further added that the recusal would ensure a free and fair trial, allowing the truth to come out.
Background of the Case
The liquor policy case pertains to alleged corruption and irregularities in the formulation and implementation of Delhi's new excise policy, which was introduced in November 2021 but later scrapped. The case has been a major political flashpoint, with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government of using investigative agencies to target opposition leaders. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have been probing the matter.
Justice Sharma was hearing the case in the Delhi High Court. Her recusal came after the AAP raised concerns about potential bias. The party had filed a petition seeking her recusal, citing certain remarks made during the proceedings that they claimed indicated a prejudiced approach.
Political Implications
The recusal has sparked reactions from various political quarters. AAP leaders have termed it a victory for justice, while the BJP has maintained that the judiciary is independent and decisions are made based on legal merit. The case has been listed for hearing before a different bench.
Kejriwal, who has been at the forefront of the fight against what he calls "political vendetta," said the recusal restores faith in the judicial system. "This is a message to all those who misuse power that truth will always prevail," he added.
The next hearing in the liquor policy case is expected to take place next week, with the new bench likely to take up the matter afresh.
