Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written to a Delhi High Court judge, declaring that he will not appear in the excise policy case. This development comes just days after his plea seeking the recusal of the judge from hearing the matter was dismissed.
Background of the Case
The excise policy case pertains to alleged irregularities in the formulation and implementation of Delhi's excise policy for 2021-22. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are probing the matter. Kejriwal, along with other Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, has been summoned by investigative agencies.
Kejriwal's Letter to the Judge
In his letter, Kejriwal expressed his inability to appear before the court, citing the dismissal of his recusal plea. He argued that the judge's continued involvement in the case raises questions of bias. The chief minister maintained that his decision is based on principles of natural justice and fairness.
Legal Implications
Legal experts suggest that Kejriwal's refusal to appear could lead to contempt of court proceedings. The court may issue a bailable or non-bailable warrant against him if he fails to comply with the summons. However, Kejriwal's legal team is likely to challenge any such action.
Political Ramifications
The excise policy case has become a major political flashpoint in Delhi. The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Kejriwal and his government of corruption. Kejriwal, on the other hand, has dismissed the allegations as a conspiracy by the central government to destabilize his administration.
Previous Recusal Plea
Earlier this month, Kejriwal had filed a plea seeking the recusal of Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani from hearing the case. The plea was dismissed by the court, which found no merit in the allegations of bias. Following this, Kejriwal has now written to the judge, reiterating his stance.
What's Next?
The court is likely to take a strict view of Kejriwal's letter. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for next week, where the judge may address this development. Meanwhile, the ED and CBI continue their investigations, with several AAP leaders already facing questioning.
