New Delhi (February 27 UNI): The Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court has ordered a departmental inquiry against the CBI’s Investigating Officer while discharging all accused in the alleged Delhi excise policy case, including former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia.
Delivering a strongly worded order, the special court held that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case and pointed to serious deficiencies in the investigation conducted by the Central Bureau of Investigation. The court observed that the chargesheet, though voluminous, contained claims that were not supported by witness statements or material evidence and suffered from internal contradictions.
On Sisodia’s role, the court said there was no credible evidence to show that he criminally influenced the formulation or implementation of the 2021–22 excise policy. It also noted the absence of any recovery linking him to alleged irregularities.
Regarding Kejriwal, the judge held that his implication lacked cogent material. The court underscored that attributing conspiracy to a constitutional functionary without foundational evidence was inconsistent with settled legal principles.
The judge also questioned the manner in which certain accused were arraigned, remarking that there appeared to be no substantial material against some individuals despite their prominent placement in the case.
The excise policy, introduced by the Delhi Government in 2021 with the aim of reforming liquor trade and enhancing revenue, was later withdrawn after allegations of irregularities surfaced. Following this, Delhi Lieutenant-Governor Vinay Kumar Saxena recommended a CBI probe. Both the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate had alleged that the policy framework conferred undue benefits upon select private entities.
Sisodia had remained in custody for around 530 days after his arrest in 2023, while Kejriwal was arrested by the CBI in June 2024 while already in ED custody in a related matter. He was later granted bail by the Supreme Court in September 2024.
With all 23 accused discharged and an internal probe now ordered into the conduct of the Investigating Officer, the ruling marks a significant turn in one of the most high-profile political cases in recent years.
