Arvind Kejriwal, chief of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has informed the Delhi High Court that he will not appear in the ongoing excise policy case, either personally or through legal representation, citing a loss of faith in the judicial process in this matter.
Kejriwal Cites Loss of Faith in Justice
In a letter addressed to Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, Kejriwal stated that his “hope of getting justice” from the court had been “broken.” He described his decision as a personal one, guided by conscience.
Invoking the principles of Mahatma Gandhi, Kejriwal announced that he would adopt a path of “Satyagraha” as a form of protest against the proceedings.
Background: Recusal Plea Rejected
The development follows the High Court’s dismissal of Kejriwal’s plea seeking the recusal of Justice Sharma from the case.
- Kejriwal had alleged a possible conflict of interest
- He pointed to the judge’s children being empanelled as Central government counsel
- He argued that this created a reasonable apprehension of bias
However, the court rejected these arguments.
Court’s Strong Observations
Justice Sharma, while dismissing the recusal plea, made key observations:
- A litigant’s perception alone is not grounds for recusal
- Recusal without valid reason would send a wrong institutional signal
- The application lacked evidence and contained “aspersions and insinuations”
She emphasised that judges are bound by the discipline of their office and cannot step aside based on unfounded doubts.
What the Case Is About
The controversy is linked to alleged irregularities in Delhi’s excise policy.
- A trial court had earlier discharged Kejriwal and 22 others
- The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) challenged that decision in the High Court
- The High Court is currently hearing the matter
Kejriwal’s Allegations
Kejriwal’s plea also referenced:
- Justice Sharma’s participation in events linked to Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad
- Alleged ideological differences with AAP
He argued these factors raised concerns about impartiality, which the court ultimately dismissed.
What Happens Next?
Kejriwal’s refusal to appear marks an unusual step in an ongoing legal proceeding and could have significant legal consequences. The court is expected to decide the next course of action as the case continues.
