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Excise policy case: Delhi High Court to hear CBI plea on May 11
The Delhi High Court deferred hearing on the CBI’s petition challenging the trial court’s discharge order in the excise policy case to May 11, with the judge awaiting consent from senior lawyers to represent AAP leaders who did not appear or appoint counsel. Earlier developments included the trial court’s February 27 discharge, a March 9 stay on related actions, and an April 20 recusal-plea dismissal.
Why It Matters
The case involves high-profile political figures and a major criminal inquiry, with potential implications for political accountability and the ongoing excise policy investigation.
Timeline
4 Events
May 8, 2026: Hearing deferred to May 11; representation being arranged
May 8, 2026
The Delhi High Court deferred hearing on the CBI’s petition challenging the discharge order to May 11. Justice Sharma said she was awaiting consent from senior lawyers to represent Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak, who had chosen not to appear personally or appoint counsel. She stated she would appoint on Monday and that arguments would begin on Tuesday.
April 20, 2026: Recusal plea declined
April 20, 2026
Subsequently, Kejriwal, Sisodia and other respondents moved an application seeking the judge’s recusal; Justice Sharma declined the recusal plea, leading to the three AAP leaders refusing to contest the case.
March 9, 2026: Justice Sharma stays the action against CBI officer
March 9, 2026
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma stayed the trial court’s recommendation seeking departmental action against the CBI investigating officer in the case.
February 27, 2026: Trial court discharges accused in excise policy case
February 27, 2026
The trial court discharged Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and 21 others in the excise policy case, ruling that the prosecution case was unable to withstand judicial scrutiny and stood discredited in its entirety.