Mon Apr 06 11:21:30 UTC 2026: Headline: Kejriwal Challenges Judge’s Impartiality in Liquor Policy Case, CBI Objects

The Story:
Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal personally argued his application in the Delhi High Court seeking the recusal of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma from hearing the CBI’s revision plea in the excise policy case. The CBI is challenging the trial court’s discharge of Kejriwal and 22 others in the alleged liquor policy scam. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI, strongly objected, accusing Kejriwal of “theatrics” and making “baseless allegations” against the institution. The court issued notice on the recusal application and scheduled a final hearing for April 13.

Key Points:

  • Arvind Kejriwal filed a recusal application, seeking Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma’s removal from the CBI’s revision plea hearing in the excise policy case.
  • Solicitor General Tushar Mehta criticized Kejriwal’s actions, calling them “theatrics” and alleging baseless allegations against the court.
  • The CBI claimed that multiple accused parties have filed recusal applications, suggesting a coordinated effort.
  • Justice Sharma instructed any other accused wishing to file recusal applications to do so promptly to avoid piecemeal consideration.
  • The High Court is already hearing the CBI’s revision petition against the trial court’s decision not to put Kejriwal and others on trial.
  • Previously, Kejriwal and others sought the intervention of the HC Chief Justice to transfer the case from Justice Sharma’s roster, which was rejected.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kejriwal’s direct involvement signals the high stakes he perceives in this case.
  • The CBI views the recusal application as a tactic to delay proceedings and undermine the court’s authority.
  • The court is attempting to manage the situation to prevent further delays and maintain order in the proceedings.
  • The challenge to Justice Sharma’s impartiality reflects a deep-seated distrust and apprehension from Kejriwal’s side.
  • The outcome of the recusal application will significantly impact the trajectory of the excise policy case.

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