Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea in the Delhi excise policy case is set to be heard by the Supreme Court today. The case relates to alleged irregularities in the implementation of the excise policy, which was introduced by the Kejriwal government in 2021.
Kejriwal has been accused of corruption and misuse of power in connection with the policy, which was aimed at reforming the liquor trade in Delhi. The policy was later withdrawn following allegations of irregularities and corruption.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a chargesheet in the case, naming Kejriwal and several others, including his deputy Manish Sisodia, as accused. The ED has alleged that Kejriwal and others conspired to extend undue benefits to certain liquor licensees, causing a loss of over ₹1,000 crore to the exchequer.
Kejriwal has denied any wrongdoing and has termed the allegations as “politically motivated”. He has also accused the Centre of trying to destabilize his government through the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The Supreme Court’s decision on Kejriwal’s bail plea is being closely watched, as it could have implications for the Delhi government and the AAP’s political fortunes. The case has already led to the arrest of several high-ranking officials and politicians, including Sisodia, who is currently in judicial custody.
The hearing is set to begin at 10:30 am today, and the court’s decision is expected to be crucial in determining the fate of Kejriwal and others accused in the case.