Today, On 16th May, The Supreme Court emphasized that in cases affecting citizens’ liberty, each day is crucial. Delays in such matters can significantly impact individuals’ freedom. The urgency in addressing these cases underscores the importance of timely judicial action. The Court highlights the need for swift justice in safeguarding personal liberty.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court, On Friday, emphasized the importance of every single day when it comes to matters involving the freedom of individuals. It directed the Delhi High Court to promptly decide on the regular bail request of a businessman involved in a corruption case related to the now defunct Delhi excise policy.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing businessman Amandeep Singh Dhall, informed the bench of Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta that the petitioner’s regular bail application has been heard by the high court on 40 occasions, and the next hearing has been scheduled for July 8.
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He stated,
“It is unacceptable that after 40 hearings, a decision on regular bail remains pending,”
The bench highlighted that the petitioner’s regular bail request has been pending since it filed last July.
The bench stated,
‘In matters concerning the liberty of citizens, every single day counts. By leaving the regular bail matter unresolved for nearly 11 months, the petitioner’s liberty is being deprived,’
The bench urged,
“We request the high court to resolve the bail application before the commencement of summer vacations.”
The high court’s summer break begins on June 3, making May 31 the last official working day.
Dhall currently facing multiple charges related to the excise policy, which are under investigation by both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED’s money laundering case originated from an FIR filed by the CBI.
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Previously, a trial court denied Dhall’s request for regular bail in a corruption case filed by the CBI.
According to the investigative agencies, Dhall alleged to have collaborated with other individuals and played an “active” role in formulating the liquor policy. Additionally, he is accused of facilitating kickbacks to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and its subsequent recoupment by the “South Group” through various illicit means.
The CBI and the ED contend that irregularities occurred during the modification of the excise policy, and undue favours granted to license holders.