Kejriwal told the Delhi High Court that Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma has consistently ruled in favour of ED and CBI, raising serious doubts about a fair hearing. He argued that even a “reasonable apprehension of bias” is enough for recusal, citing past judgments and recent court orders.
The Delhi High Court has given a final chance to Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and others to respond to the ED’s plea seeking removal of adverse trial court remarks in the excise policy case. The Court warned that if no reply is filed, the right to respond will be closed and arguments will be heard on April 22.
The Enforcement Directorate has approached the Delhi High Court seeking removal of adverse observations made by a trial court while discharging Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and others in the Excise Policy case. The agency argues the remarks were unwarranted and recorded without giving it a chance to be heard, violating principles of natural justice.
A Delhi Court, while discharging Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and others in the excise policy case, criticised the ED for making arrests before the predicate offence is judicially tested. The Court warned that mechanical use of PMLA powers risks violating Article 21 and turning investigation into punishment.