Judiciary's Integrity Questioned Amidst Liquor Policy Controversy

The decision by a Delhi High Court judge to remain on a controversial liquor policy case has triggered a political and legal uproar. The judge, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, rejected the plea for her recusal filed by AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal and others.

Saurabh Bharadwaj, the AAP Delhi unit president, criticized the High Court's motives, suggesting the judiciary's image would have been preserved if Chief Minister Rekha Gupta faced contempt proceedings for derogatory remarks about another judge. Justice Sharma, however, emphasized that personal attacks on judges jeopardize the integrity of the judiciary.

The case has reignited debate over political influence in the justice system, with CM Gupta condemning Kejriwal's attempt to question judicial impartiality as damaging to democratic institutions. This controversy highlights concerns over selective acceptance of judicial decisions, an issue that challenges the rule of law in India.