On August 9, 2024, the Supreme Court granted bail to Manish Sisodia, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, after 18 months of incarceration. Sisodia was arrested in February 2023 in connection with alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy. The court’s decision marks a significant development in the high-profile case involving the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader.
Court’s Ruling and Conditions
The bail was granted by a bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan. The justices emphasized that Sisodia had been denied his right to a speedy trial, noting that the trial had not even commenced despite his lengthy detention. “Incarceration of 18 months… Trial not having even commenced and appellant has been deprived of right to speedy trial,” Justice Gavai remarked. The court underscored that sending Sisodia back to the trial court would be a “travesty of justice.”
Sisodia was directed to furnish a bail bond of ₹10 lakh with two sureties, surrender his passport, and report to the Investigating Officer twice a week. The court also imposed conditions to prevent him from influencing witnesses or tampering with evidence. The decision followed the court’s reservation of its order on August 6.
Denial of ED’s Request
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had requested restrictions on Sisodia’s movements, specifically barring him from visiting the Delhi Secretariat or the Chief Minister’s office. This request was made in light of similar restrictions imposed on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during a previous bail scenario. However, the Supreme Court rejected this request, allowing Sisodia more freedom than what was granted to Kejriwal under similar circumstances.
Background of the Case
The case against Sisodia stems from allegations of irregularities in the Delhi excise policy. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Sisodia in February 2023, followed by the ED a month later. The complaint was initially filed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena in July 2022, accusing Sisodia of making decisions regarding the excise policy for 2021-22 without proper authority, purportedly to favor certain licensees.
The legal battle has been fraught with delays and challenges. Sisodia’s previous attempts to secure bail from the Supreme Court were unsuccessful. The top court had initially refused bail on October 30, 2023, but left the door open for a new plea if the trial progressed slowly. When the trial did not begin within the stipulated time, Sisodia sought bail again, but his plea was rejected by the Delhi High Court on May 21, 2024. He subsequently filed a third bail plea with the Supreme Court, which has now resulted in today’s favorable verdict.
Political Reactions
AAP leader Sanjay Singh praised the Supreme Court’s decision, describing it as a moment where “prayers were met.” The party celebrated the verdict, viewing it as a significant victory in their ongoing struggle against what they perceive as politically motivated charges.
In addition to Sisodia, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and AAP MP Sanjay Singh have also faced legal troubles related to the ED’s probe. While Singh is out on bail, Kejriwal remains in judicial custody at Tihar Jail. The case continues to be a focal point of political debate and legal scrutiny.
(With inputs from agencies)
