MoS Harsh Malhotra: Legal Discharge is Not an Endorsement in Delhi Excise Case
Synopsis
Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra discusses the recent Delhi court ruling that discharged AAP leaders in the Excise Policy case. He emphasizes the ongoing judicial process and the concerns raised by voters ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
MoS Harsh Malhotra highlighted the ongoing judicial process in the excise policy case.
The court found insufficient evidence to continue the case against AAP leaders.
Concerns from voters about the impact of the excise policy on youth were emphasized.
The 2025 Delhi Assembly elections are looming, with public sentiment critical of the accused.
Legal discharge does not equate to public endorsement, according to Malhotra.
New Delhi, Feb 28 (NationPress) Union Minister of State (MoS) Harsh Malhotra responded on Saturday to a Delhi court's ruling which discharged AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia in the Excise Policy case. He emphasized that the court's decision merely represents the lower court's view and that the judicial process is ongoing.
In an interview with IANS, Malhotra stated, “The lower court has made it clear that the case does not currently hold against them due to the lack of witnesses. This is the assessment of the lower court, and it is acceptable to voice this.”
He went on to assert that essential evidence has been compromised, claiming, “It is well-known that 150 phones, which were reportedly involved in this transaction, were destroyed. Numerous SIM cards were also deactivated.”
Nonetheless, he firmly stated that the legal discharge should not be interpreted as a public endorsement. “Did the people of Delhi forgive the accused? Absolutely not,” he remarked.
Looking ahead to the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, Malhotra indicated that voters have raised questions regarding the now-defunct excise policy. “During this election, the citizens of Delhi asked them — why did you lead our youth towards alcohol? The establishment of three liquor shops in a single ward was a serious mistake committed by Kejriwal and his then Deputy Chief Minister Sisodia. They have not been cleared of these accusations,” he noted.
The Minister stressed that the issue is far from concluded. “The judicial process continues. And the pivotal question remains — if they believed the policy was correct, why did they retract it?” he queried.
Malhotra further expressed that, in his opinion, the electorate has already sent a political signal. “The people of Delhi have provided them with a preview in the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections; the legal proceedings are still pending,” he stated.
Earlier on February 27, the court granted relief to Kejriwal and Sisodia in the CBI case, noting that the prosecution had not provided substantial evidence.
The Rouse Avenue Court recognized a significant reprieve for Kejriwal and Sisodia in relation to the excise policy case, highlighting that the prosecution had failed to substantiate its claims. The CBI had alleged that approximately Rs 100 crore was paid by a “south lobby” to sway the 2021–22 excise policy, which was eventually retracted following a probe order.
Point of View
The ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the Delhi excise policy case highlight significant political ramifications. While the court's discharge of prominent leaders may suggest a temporary relief, the public sentiment remains critical, especially with the upcoming elections. The discourse surrounding accountability and governance will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in Delhi.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the Delhi court's discharge of Kejriwal and Sisodia?
The Delhi court discharged Kejriwal and Sisodia due to the lack of witnesses, indicating that the prosecution failed to present substantial evidence against them.
What allegations were made by the CBI in the excise policy case?
The CBI alleged that nearly Rs 100 crore was paid by a 'south lobby' to influence the 2021–22 excise policy, which was later scrapped following investigations.
How did Harsh Malhotra react to the court's ruling?
Harsh Malhotra stated that the legal discharge should not be seen as a public endorsement and emphasized the ongoing judicial process.
What concerns did voters raise regarding the excise policy?
Voters expressed concerns about the excise policy potentially leading to increased alcohol consumption among youth, questioning the establishment of multiple liquor shops in a single ward.
What implications does this case have for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections?
The case's developments may influence public perception and voter sentiment ahead of the 2025 elections, as accountability and governance are key issues for the electorate.
