Delhi High Court Stays Remarks Against CBI in Excise Policy Case

The Delhi High Court, on Monday, issued notices to former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, ex-Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, and 21 others. This action follows the CBI's challenge against their discharge in the excise policy case. Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva expressed that this decision allows the investigation to continue, which he believes is vital to protect the capital city's image from reputational damage.

In Monday's proceedings, the High Court stayed derogatory remarks made against the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and its officers. The court also instructed that proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act be deferred until further notice. The bench, led by Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma, was hearing an appeal filed by the CBI contesting the discharge order.

The notices were issued after none of the respondents, including notable figures like Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, were represented at the hearing. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, arguing for the CBI, contended that the trial court's discharge order was tantamount to 'acquittal without trial.' He emphasized that conspiracy cases hinge on circumstantial evidence gathered throughout the trial and criticized the lower court for prematurely scrutinizing prosecution evidence.