New Delhi, India – February 27, 2026
A special court in Delhi on Friday discharged former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, and several others in the alleged corruption case linked to the Delhi excise policy.
The order was delivered by the Rouse Avenue Court, which held that no prima facie evidence of criminal conspiracy was found in the case being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). However, Kejriwal has not received relief in a separate money laundering case under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
Court’s Observations and CBI’s Response
The court had reserved its decision on February 12 after hearing detailed arguments from both the CBI and the defense. Special Judge Jitendra Singh delivered the order after reviewing submissions related to the charge sheet and supplementary filings.
The CBI had argued that the initial charge sheet and supplementary filings contained sufficient grounds to establish a conspiracy. The agency alleged that a “South Lobby” paid ₹100 crore in bribes to influence the Delhi excise policy in its favor.
According to sources, the CBI is expected to challenge the discharge order before the Delhi High Court.
Defense Arguments
Senior counsel representing Kejriwal argued that there was no concrete evidence linking him to any demand or acceptance of bribes. The defense maintained that he was performing official duties as Chief Minister and that his name did not appear in the first charge sheet or three supplementary charge sheets, but was added in the fourth supplementary filing.
During arguments, references were also made to the statement of approver Raghav Magunta. The defense asserted that no direct link established Kejriwal’s involvement in any financial transaction related to the alleged case.
What Is the Delhi Excise Policy Case?
The controversy centers on the ‘Delhi Excise Policy 2021–22,’ introduced by the Delhi government during the COVID-19 period. Allegations of irregularities in its formulation and implementation led the Lieutenant Governor to recommend a CBI probe.
The policy was later withdrawn amid growing scrutiny and allegations of procedural lapses.
In August 2022, the CBI registered an FIR against 15 accused individuals, citing alleged violations and irregularities in the implementation of the policy. Subsequently, the ED initiated a separate investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Difference Between CBI and ED Investigations
The CBI’s investigation focused on alleged irregularities in the policy’s formulation and execution.
The ED, on the other hand, has been probing alleged money laundering aspects linked to the case.
Kejriwal’s Statement After the Verdict
Following the court’s decision, Kejriwal said that the allegations had been politically motivated and expressed faith in the judiciary. He stated that the court had dismissed the charges and reiterated his commitment to public service.
The case continues to draw political and legal attention, especially as the CBI prepares to challenge the ruling.
