In a significant development, the Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday extended the judicial custody of former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia till April 26, 2024, in connection with the Delhi excise policy-related money laundering case. The decision dealt a blow to Sisodia, who has been under scrutiny by both the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
During the court proceedings, the next hearing was scheduled for April 26 at 11 AM. The court directed the accused to provide a list of documents that have yet to be examined. Previously, Sisodia’s judicial custody had been extended to April 18.
Highlights from the Last Hearing:
At the last hearing, Sisodia’s lawyer, Mohit Mathur, argued that the investigation was being deliberately delayed. Referring to the bail granted to another accused, Benoy Babu, Mathur emphasized that Sisodia no longer holds any influential position, suggesting a basis for granting bail.
ED’s Allegations:
The ED has alleged significant corruption in the formulation and implementation of Delhi’s liquor policy, naming Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as the main conspirator. The agency claims that several AAP leaders and ministers, including Kejriwal, have been involved in the scheme.
Recent Developments:
In a related case, the court has also extended the judicial custody of AAP’s National Convener, Arvind Kejriwal, until April 23. Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by the central investigative agency.
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The AAP has criticized the ED’s actions, claiming they are motivated by vengeance and political rivalry. The party stated that the public would respond to these allegations accordingly.
