Delhi Liquor Policy Case: Home Ministry Gives Nod to Prosecute Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia under PMLA

Delhi Liquor Policy Case: In a major development on the eve of 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, the Union Home Ministry has granted permission to Enforcement Directorate (ED) to proceed with the case against former Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia for alleged involvement in the Delhi excise policy scam, popularly known as “liquor scam.”

The development is considered a severe setback for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and its convenor, Kejriwal. It follows Tuesday’s approval of the case against him, which suggests allegations about financial irregularities and money laundering regarding the formulation and implementation of Delhi’s excise policy during their tenure.

The Delhi Excise Policy, which was brought in by the AAP government, was supposed to transform the liquor sales business in the capital by privatizing the sector. However, it soon came under the scanner after allegations of corruption, favoritism, and undue benefits to certain liquor licensees surfaced. The ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have been probing the matter, alleging that kickbacks and illegal commissions were funneled through various channels, amounting to significant financial gains for key individuals.

Manish Sisodia, who led the policy, was arrested earlier this year in connection with the case. His arrest marked a turning point in the investigation, with the ED reportedly uncovering critical evidence linking senior AAP leaders to the alleged scam.

The timing of the prosecution approval has raised questions because it coincides with the run-up to the Delhi Assembly elections in 2025. AAP leaders have termed the move as “politically motivated,” accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of using central agencies to target opposition parties.

“This is nothing but a vendetta against AAP. We have always worked for the people and have nothing to hide,” said an AAP spokesperson.

On the other hand, BJP leaders have maintained that the investigations are based on concrete evidence and are not politically driven. “The law is taking its course. No one is above the law, and those involved in corruption must face justice,” a senior BJP leader said.

With the nod from the Home Ministry, ED is likely to speed up the legal process against Kejriwal and Sisodia. If convicted under the PMLA, it could be pretty severe, disqualifying them from contesting elections and inflicting significant damage on their political careers.

As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes will be on the AAP’s strategy to counter the allegations and its impact on the party’s electoral prospects in Delhi. This development is likely to dominate political discourse in the coming months, shaping the narrative for the highly anticipated Assembly polls.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.