Enforcement Directorate, Excise policy, and Elections: A saga
- Trisha Rath
- Apr 24, 2024
- 2 min read
In July, 2022, the Chief Secretary of Delhi reported gross violations in Delhi’s 2021-22 liquor policy. According to his report, undue benefits had been provided to liquor licensees, in return of which several officials had received kickbacks.
This was the start of the Delhi excise policy case, which has unfurled over the last few months. Politicians like K Kavitha, Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh, and most recently Arvind Kejriwal have all been arrested in connection with this case.
What was the Delhi Excise Policy, 2021-22?
The Delhi Excise Policy was a revamped policy, drafted with the intention of allowing the State government to withdraw from direct involvement in liquor retail. It was implemented in November, 2021, but was rolled back less than a year later amidst massive irregularities.
The Chief Secretary’s report alleged that under the new policy, NCT of Delhi had suffered massive financial losses. The Aam Aadmi Party (the ruling party in Delhi) was accused of giving liquor businesses to private companies with a fixed margin of 12% – with a 6% margin for kickbacks.
What were the allegations against Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal?
On the basis of the CBI’s FIR, the ED stepped into the case, launching an investigation for money laundering. Between October, 2023, and March, 2024, the ED issued nine summons to Kejriwal – all of which he evaded. Following the last evasion, Kejriwal was taken into custody on March 21st and was denied bail by the Delhi High Court.
The ED alleges that Kejriwal was the “kingpin” of the Delhi liquor scam and was directly involved in the formulation of the excise policy. He was also accused of using the illegal proceeds for campaigning in Goa before the Assembly elections of 2022. Lawyers representing the ED also claimed that there was “destruction of electronic evidence”
What are the most recent developments?
The Delhi High Court is currently adjudicating upon the case against Kejriwal’s arrest. As of 23rd April, the HC extended Kejriwal’s judicial custody after the completion of their remand. Meanwhile, as the Lok Sabha elections proceed with full swing, Kejriwal continues to serve as the Chief Minister of Delhi from behind bars.
By Trisha Rath
References:
Commentaires