ED Poised to Expand Charges in Delhi Excise Case Following Bail for Kejriwal and Sisodia

New Delhi, 14th September 2024: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia, key figures in the Delhi excise policy case, have been granted bail. This development represents a significant moment for the party, which is celebrating the return of its leaders, but remains under a legal cloud.

In addition to Kejriwal and Sisodia, AAP itself is implicated as a primary accused. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is expected to pursue further legal actions against the party. Sources within the investigating agencies have informed News18 that the ED is preparing another supplementary charge sheet that will detail the party’s involvement in the alleged scandal.

So far, the ED has submitted nine charge sheets, including eight supplementary ones. A senior ED officer commented, “The investigation is ongoing, and we have additional leads. The judiciary’s decision to grant bail does not affect the trial’s progress. We have substantial evidence against the accused.”

The officer further noted, “The excise policy adopted by the Delhi government has unfolded into a major scam, with allegations of misappropriated public funds being funneled into political contributions. AAP’s involvement in this case is significant, and we may file an additional charge sheet outlining the party’s role.”

Although the release of its leaders offers AAP some respite, the ongoing case poses a serious threat. The next few months will be crucial for the party as it faces intense legal, political, and public scrutiny. The outcome of this case could either be a turning point for AAP or further exacerbate its challenges.