Delhi Court Blasts CBI, Clears Kejriwal, Sisodia in Excise Policy Case
CBI probe dismissed as court finds no criminal intent; judge slams agency for relying on approver statements to build its case.
Staff WriterFeb 27, 2026, 11:37 AM
A Delhi court on Friday discharged all 23 accused in the Delhi Excise Policy case, including former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, and Telangana Jagruthi president K. Kavitha. Special Judge (PC Act) Jitendra Singh ruled that there was no overarching conspiracy or criminal intent in the policy’s formulation, and that the CBI’s prosecution “does not survive judicial scrutiny.”
The court sharply criticised the CBI for attempting to construct a narrative of conspiracy based on mere conjecture and approver statements. “If such conduct is allowed, it would be a grave violation of constitutional principles,” the judge noted, and indicated that a departmental inquiry may be recommended against CBI officials who made public servant Kuldeep Singh the first accused.
The case, filed in 2022 following a complaint by Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, alleged manipulation of the 2021–22 Delhi Excise Policy to favour select liquor licensees and facilitate kickbacks. Both the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate had investigated, with some political leaders arrested, sparking criticism of possible political motivations.
Despite months in jail and repeated bail denials by the Rouse Avenue Court and Delhi High Court, the accused finally secured relief from the Supreme Court, and the Delhi court has now formally closed the case against all 23 individuals.
The court concluded that no prima facie evidence exists against any of the accused, bringing an end to one of Delhi’s most high-profile political investigations.
For any enquiries or information, contact ask@tlr.ae or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels.