Manish Sisodia’s judicial custody in excise policy case extended until April 18

New Delhi, April 6 (IANS) – A Delhi court extended AAP leader Manish Sisodia’s judicial custody till April 18 in connection with a money laundering case related to the alleged excise policy scam. Sisodia, the former deputy chief minister of Delhi, appeared before Special Judge Kaveri Baweja of Rouse Avenue Court for the extension.

Sisodia’s bail application was argued by his counsel, Mohit Mathur, who raised concerns about the delay in completing the investigation in the case. Despite 11 months passing since the investigation concluded, there has been no evidence linking Sisodia to the alleged bribe money, Mathur argued before the court.

Mathur contended the absence of the CBI’s public prosecutor and stressed that the alleged proceeds of crime did not cause any loss to the exchequer or private consumers. He highlighted the delay in the trial process and emphasized that Sisodia met the triple test for bail as outlined by the Supreme Court, urging for a swift trial.

Citing the bail granted to another accused, Benoy Babu, Mathur argued that Sisodia no longer holds a position of influence and should be granted bail. He further stated that Sisodia’s eligibility for bail is established, given the fulfillment of all necessary conditions without any misuse of liberties, as per the Supreme Court’s guidelines. Sisodia’s role is currently being investigated by both the ED and CBI.

The CBI counsel informed the court earlier that the investigation was at a critical stage and releasing Sisodia on bail might impede the ongoing probe or lead to his evasion of justice. The court considered these factors before extending Sisodia’s judicial custody. The case continues to unfold as investigations progress.