Excise Policy Case: Delhi High Court Lists CBI Plea Against Kejriwal, Sisodia’s Discharge for July 16 Hearing

The Delhi High Court on Monday listed for hearing on July 16 the Central Bureau of Investigation’s plea challenging the discharge of Aam Aadmi Party leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi excise policy case. (m.economictimes.com)

The case relates to alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy, which has remained one of the most politically contentious investigations in recent years. The CBI has accused several individuals and entities of corruption, procedural violations, and financial misconduct linked to the formulation and implementation of the liquor policy in the national capital.

The agency approached the High Court after a lower court discharged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in certain aspects related to the case. The CBI argued that the trial court order required judicial reconsideration and sought intervention from the High Court. (m.economictimes.com)

During Monday’s proceedings, the Delhi High Court fixed July 16 as the next date for detailed arguments in the matter. Legal teams representing both the investigating agency and the AAP leaders are expected to present their submissions during the hearing.

The excise policy case has emerged as a major flashpoint between the Aam Aadmi Party and the BJP-led Centre. AAP leaders have consistently alleged that central investigative agencies are being misused for political targeting, while the BJP has maintained that the investigation is based on evidence and due legal process.

Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia have repeatedly denied all allegations linked to the excise policy. The AAP leadership has described the case as politically motivated and aimed at weakening opposition parties ahead of elections. (aamaadmiparty.org)

The now-withdrawn Delhi excise policy was initially introduced by the AAP government as a reform-oriented measure intended to modernise liquor sales and improve revenue generation. However, the policy later came under scrutiny following allegations of favouritism and irregularities in licence allocation.

Over the past two years, the investigation has seen multiple arrests, raids, court proceedings, and political confrontations involving senior leaders of the AAP government. The Enforcement Directorate has also conducted a parallel money laundering investigation related to the same matter. (cbi.gov.in)

Legal experts believe the Delhi High Court’s eventual decision on the CBI’s plea could have significant implications for the future course of the investigation and ongoing proceedings involving senior political figures.

Meanwhile, political reactions continue to intensify, with opposition parties accusing the Centre of selective action, while BJP leaders insist that no individual is above the law.

As the matter heads toward the next hearing on July 16, the excise policy case remains one of the most closely watched legal and political battles in the country.