The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the alleged corruption case related to the now-scrapped excise policy. The chargesheet was submitted to a special CBI court at Rouse Avenue, officials said on Monday.
Kejriwal, who also serves as the national convener of AAP, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21, 2024, in a money laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam. Although the Supreme Court granted him interim bail, he remains in jail following his arrest by the CBI on June 26, 2024, in a related corruption case.
The Delhi Excise Policy 2021-2022, introduced in November 2021, aimed to revolutionize the liquor retail landscape in the capital by maximizing revenue, combating counterfeit alcohol sales, and enhancing the consumer experience. However, allegations of procedural irregularities led to the policy being scrapped on August 1, 2022.
In the aftermath, the CBI and ED launched investigations into the alleged scam. The ED’s investigation focuses on the money trail, while the CBI is investigating charges of corruption and bribery against public servants.
Kejriwal was arrested by the CBI while he was in judicial custody at Tihar Jail, having been detained by the ED in the related money laundering case. The charges against him have added significant political drama in Delhi, raising questions about the future of the AAP leadership.
The investigations have highlighted alleged irregularities in the implementation of the excise policy, which was initially designed to bring substantial reforms to Delhiâs liquor trade. The CBI and ED are continuing their investigations to uncover the full extent of the alleged scam and the roles of those involved.
The filing of the chargesheet marks a critical development in the ongoing investigation, drawing national attention and potentially impacting the political landscape in Delhi and beyond. The next steps in the legal process will be closely watched as both agencies continue their pursuit of justice in this high-profile case.