On July 16, the Delhi High Court granted a final opportunity to AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak to file a response within two weeks to the CBI’s plea challenging a trial‑court order that had discharged them in the liquor‑policy (excise) case.

Legal Background

The controversy began in 2024 when the CBI launched an investigation into alleged violations of Delhi’s excise policy by senior AAP officials. A trial court in 2025 dismissed the charges, prompting the CBI to approach the High Court for a revision petition. The proceedings have been repeatedly stalled due to a strike by senior lawyers protesting the proposed expansion of the pecuniary jurisdiction of Delhi’s district courts.

Solicitor General’s Position

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI, emphasized that the three leaders had previously been afforded “several opportunities” to file replies, yet the case remained “sufficiently delayed.” His remarks underscored the need for a swift resolution and set the tone for the bench’s decisive action.

Court’s Final Order

Justice Manoj Jain clarified that the deadline would allow the accused “the liberty to file a reply” and fixed a concrete timeline for the submissions. The court listed the matter for arguments on August 17, where the CBI will present its case against the discharged leaders.

Implications

If the AAP leaders fail to submit a compelling defence, the High Court may uphold the CBI’s petition, potentially leading to renewed prosecution or further investigative measures. The outcome could reshape Delhi’s political landscape and reverberate across national politics, testing the resilience of the AAP’s governance narrative.