Delhi Court Rejects Manish Sisodia’s Bail Plea, Cites Contribution to Delay in Proceedings

In a significant development, a Delhi court rejected the bail plea of former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, stating that he and other accused individuals contributed to the delay in court proceedings related to alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. Special judge Kaveri Baweja emphasized that Sisodia’s frequent filing of applications and oral submissions, some of which were frivolous, aimed at causing delay in the case.

The court’s 42-page order, made available on Wednesday, highlighted 135 applications filed by various accused since April 2023, seeking documents and other requests. Despite Sisodia’s plea citing the prosecution’s assurance to the Supreme Court for a speedy trial, the judge rejected the reasoning, stating that the delay in proceedings was also attributable to him.

Moreover, the court dismissed arguments seeking bail on grounds of parity with another accused, Benoy Babu, emphasizing the difference in the nature of allegations against them. It also refuted claims of the case progressing at a ‘snail’s pace,’ noting the steady progression despite attempts to slow it down.

Regarding Sisodia’s request for bail to take care of his wife, who is being treated for Multiple Sclerosis, the court acknowledged the Enforcement Directorate’s submissions that she has been suffering from the disease for a long time and has adequate support. It underscored the absence of any medical emergency warranting Sisodia’s release.

Sisodia was arrested by the CBI on February 26, 2023, citing the recovery of incriminating evidence. He was later sent to Tihar Jail and arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on March 9, 2023, in connection with alleged money laundering related to the excise policy.

The court’s decision marks a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings concerning the Delhi excise policy, underscoring the need for expeditious and fair trials in such cases.

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