India News : In a major development in the Delhi Excise Policy case, the Rouse Avenue Court has acquitted former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia of all charges related to the 2022–23 excise policy.
The court ruled that allegations can only be sustained when backed by solid and sufficient evidence, which, it said, the investigating agency failed to provide. The judge described the evidence presented in the chargesheet as weak and pointed out several procedural lapses.
The court first acquitted former Excise Commissioner Kuldeep Singh, followed by Manish Sisodia, and finally Arvind Kejriwal.
However, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has indicated that it will challenge the verdict in the Delhi High Court.
Kejriwal Reacts, Calls Case “Political Conspiracy”
Following the verdict, Arvind Kejriwal became emotional while addressing the media. He termed the case “false” and alleged that it was aimed at tarnishing his image and that of his party.
Kejriwal described the case as a “major political conspiracy,” accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah of targeting opposition leaders. He said several party leaders were jailed, calling it a matter of concern for democracy.
He urged citizens to focus on “real issues” such as inflation, unemployment, and pollution instead of what he termed politically motivated cases.
Background of the Case
The controversy began with the Delhi Excise Policy 2022–23, under which allegations of irregularities and money laundering were raised. Both the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had registered cases, leading to arrests of multiple political figures.
In its ruling, the court emphasized that constitutional office holders cannot be prosecuted solely on the basis of claims or allegations without credible evidence.
With the CBI preparing to approach the High Court, the legal battle in the high-profile excise policy case appears far from over.
