BackLAW
After Kejriwal and Sisodia, AAP's Durgesh Pathak refuses to appear before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma
AAP leaders Kejriwal, Sisodia, and Pathak are involved in a liquor excise case before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. Kejriwal raised concerns of bias in a letter dated April 27, and Pathak has now refused to appear in the proceedings, discharging his vakalatnama. Atishi questioned the judge's recusal in light of these developments.
Why It Matters
The moves highlight ongoing disputes over judicial impartiality in a high-profile liquor policy case and could affect the course of the proceedings.
Timeline
3 Events
Atishi questions recusal in light of Kejriwal's concerns
April 29, 2026
Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly Atishi questions why Justice Sharma did not recuse herself from the case after Kejriwal's concerns were raised, asking what was different in this case that recusal was not being considered.
Durgesh Pathak refuses to participate in liquor policy case proceedings
April 29, 2026
Durgesh Pathak, aligning with Kejriwal's concerns about bias, writes to Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma that he will not participate in the proceedings, either personally or through a legal representative. He also states that his vakalatnama should be treated as discharged.
Kejriwal writes letter raising bias concerns about Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma in liquor excise case
April 27, 2026
Arvind Kejriwal sends a letter to the judge, Swarana Kanta Sharma, alleging a conflict of interest and concerns about bias/impartiality in the liquor excise case, and states he would not appear in person or through a legal representative.