In a significant ruling on Friday, the Delhi High Court dismissed the plea of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha member, Sanjay Singh, challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to the Delhi excise policy case.
Sanjay Singh was taken into custody by the ED on October 4, following an extensive search at his residence in the national capital. The arrest was made in connection with his alleged involvement in procuring favors for himself and certain businessmen by influencing the excise policy.
Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma, presiding over the case, pronounced the order, emphasizing that the ED’s investigation into Singh’s role in the Delhi Excise Policy case was still in its early stages. The court highlighted the need to balance individual liberty and dignity with the obligation of an agency to conduct a fair investigation.
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Justice Sharma refrained from delving into arguments suggesting a “political vendetta” against Singh. She stated,
“This court desists from imputing political affiliations or objects to the premier investigating agency. This court will not at this stage insinuate or impute any political motives to the agency in the absence of any political record.”
The court further noted that it was inappropriate to interfere when the investigation was at a
“premature and nascent stage.”
The court also addressed the statement made by Dinesh Arora, a co-accused who had turned approver in the case. The bench found no evidence to suggest that Arora’s statement, which played a pivotal role in Singh’s arrest, was made under duress.
During the proceedings, the ED, represented by Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju, labeled Singh as a “key conspirator” in the Delhi liquor scam. The ASG pointed out that during a search at Singh’s residence, a photograph of a printout of Arora’s statement, recorded by ED officials, was discovered. This raised concerns about Singh’s access to confidential documents and potential tampering with evidence.
In response, Advocate Rajat Bharadwaj, representing Singh, argued that Arora’s statement was already public knowledge. He emphasized that the ED’s case against Singh heavily relied on Arora’s statement.
Sanjay Singh has consistently refuted the allegations, terming them as “false and baseless.” He has also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government of orchestrating a political witch-hunt against him.
This case underscores the ongoing legal battles and political tensions surrounding the Delhi excise policy, with the court’s decision marking a crucial juncture in the investigation.
Also read –ED Custody Of AAP MP Sanjay Singh Extended In Delhi Excise Policy Case (lawchakra.in)
