The Delhi High Court delivered a significant verdict on Tuesday, denying bail to former Deputy Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia in cases related to alleged money laundering and corruption concerning the purported liquor policy scam.
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma dismissed Sisodia’s second bail pleas in both cases, which were filed in response to charges brought by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Sisodia, currently in judicial custody for these charges, failed to persuade the court to grant him bail, with Justice Sharma remarking that the allegations against him portrayed a grave misuse of power and breach of trust.
The court observed that the material collected in the investigations indicated that Sisodia manipulated the process of formulating the excise policy, fabricating public feedback to align with his agenda. Corruption, as per the court’s observation, stemmed from Sisodia’s desire to influence the liquor policy, diverting from the recommendations of an expert committee.
Moreover, the court noted that Sisodia did not meet the criteria for bail set by the CBI case, as he admitted to failing to produce two phones claimed to be damaged. This raised concerns about the potential tampering of evidence by Sisodia. Additionally, the court highlighted Sisodia’s influential position, having held responsibilities for 18 ministries, and the possibility of him influencing witnesses, many of whom are public servants.
In the case related to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the court acknowledged the prosecution’s establishment of a prima facie case against Sisodia. However, it maintained the provision for Sisodia to meet his wife weekly, as per the trial court’s order.
The judgment also referenced the Supreme Court’s previous denial of bail to Sisodia, clarifying that the trial court should independently assess his fresh bail application without being swayed by prior observations.
Furthermore, the court addressed concerns raised about delays in the trial, asserting that the prosecution and trial court had not caused any unwarranted delays, and each accused was entitled to a fair trial.
Sisodia, who was first arrested by the CBI and ED in February and March last year respectively, faces accusations of unlawfully influencing the excise policy to favor certain licensees and being uncooperative during investigations.
Despite multiple attempts for bail, including appeals to the Supreme Court, Sisodia remains in custody, with the apex court affirming its decision to deny him bail last October.
The denial of bail to Sisodia underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring a fair and expeditious trial in cases of alleged corruption and money laundering, reiterating the gravity of the charges against him.
Written by- Pradyumn sharma.
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