Liquor Case Verdict Exposes Investigative Gaps
The Rouse Avenue Court’s acquittal of former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Deputy Manish Sisodia, and 21 others in the liquor policy case is more than a personal vindication—it is a scathing indictment of India’s investigative machinery in politically charged cases.
After nearly two years of drawn-out proceedings, the court ruled that the prosecution failed to produce credible evidence of a criminal conspiracy and sharply condemned lapses by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Sisodia’s almost two-year detention and Kejriwal’s six-month imprisonment had dominated public discourse and electoral narratives. The court’s recommendation for a departmental inquiry against the investigating officer underscores the severity of procedural and evidentiary failures.
Experts say the verdict is a warning for investigative agencies handling complex economic and policy cases. Senior lawyer Meera Iyer noted, “Serious allegations demand rigorous, verifiable evidence. The court’s critique of investigative gaps is a wake-up call.” Former prosecutor Anil Deshpande added, “The recommendation for departmental inquiry signals substantive flaws, not minor oversights. It questions the handling of high-profile corruption cases from the ground up.”
The judgment casts a long shadow over India’s premier investigative bodies. Analysts warn that repeated failures to substantiate politically sensitive charges undermine public trust, highlighting the urgent need for stricter protocols, robust oversight, and evidence-based investigations.
Politically, the ruling strengthens AAP’s narrative of being targeted. Kejriwal said truth prevails and rivals should focus on earning public trust rather than pursuing unproven cases. Critics, however, note that the judgment does not resolve lingering concerns over the liquor policy itself.
This case exposes the tension between judicial scrutiny, investigative rigor, and political strategy. While the acquittal restores reputations, it lays bare systemic weaknesses in prosecuting corruption cases where politics and high stakes intersect. Without reform, such cases will continue to test the credibility of both investigative agencies and the judicial system.