Politics – Kejriwal Seeks Judge’s Recusal in Delhi Excise Case Hearing
Politics – The Delhi High Court on Monday witnessed an unusual courtroom exchange as former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal personally urged Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma to step aside from hearing matters related to the excise policy case.
Kejriwal Appears in Person Before High Court
In a rare move, Kejriwal addressed the court himself, informing the judge that he had filed an application requesting her recusal from the case. He stated that he intended to argue the matter personally and had not yet appointed legal representation through a formal vakalatnama. The court acknowledged his submission and placed the application on record.
Justice Sharma subsequently issued notice to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), directing the agency to file its response to the recusal request. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on April 13.
CBI Opposes Plea, Raises Concerns
Representing the CBI, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta strongly objected to Kejriwal’s application. He argued that the courtroom should not be used for what he described as unnecessary dramatics. Mehta further cautioned that if the plea for recusal is found to be without merit, it could potentially amount to contempt of court.
He emphasized that allegations made against the judicial institution must be treated with seriousness, especially when they lack substantial basis. According to Mehta, such claims risk undermining public confidence in the legal system.
Background of the Case
The hearing forms part of the ongoing legal proceedings in the Delhi excise policy case, where the CBI has challenged the discharge of several accused individuals, including Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. The investigative agency is seeking to reinstate charges against those previously cleared in the matter.
During the session, it was also noted that a separate application seeking transfer of the case to another bench—previously filed before the Supreme Court—had been withdrawn. This development cleared the way for the High Court to proceed with the current hearings.
Exchange Between Court and Counsel
The courtroom discussion grew tense as Mehta questioned the procedural approach adopted by Kejriwal. He suggested that if Kejriwal wished to argue the matter himself, he should formally discharge his legal counsel.
In response, Kejriwal clarified procedural limitations, stating that a petitioner cannot independently file such applications without the court’s permission when appearing in person. He reiterated his intention to exercise his legal rights within the framework of court procedures.
Justice Sharma then directly asked Kejriwal whether he would continue to represent himself in the proceedings, to which he confirmed his decision.
Multiple Recusal Requests Filed
During the hearing, Mehta informed the court that several other accused individuals—reportedly seven in total—had also submitted similar applications seeking the judge’s recusal. He suggested that this pattern indicated a coordinated effort rather than isolated concerns.
Taking note of this, the court invited any additional applicants to submit their requests promptly so that all such pleas could be considered together. Justice Sharma indicated her intention to address the issue comprehensively in a single order.
Next Steps in Proceedings
Apart from the recusal application, the court is also expected to decide whether additional time should be granted to Kejriwal and other accused persons to respond to the CBI’s petition. The outcome of these procedural decisions will shape the direction of the case in the coming weeks.
The next hearing on April 13 is likely to be crucial, as it will determine whether the judge continues to preside over the matter and how the broader legal challenges unfold.