Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has publicly denounced Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal, stating that he has a tendency to position adversaries in a “witness box” whenever criticism arises. During a recent address, she accused him of showing a blatant disregard for democratic institutions, including the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), and various judicial bodies.

Gupta branded Kejriwal as “a culprit of the public,” asserting that his behaviour is being closely observed by the nation. She raised questions regarding his motives for targeting the judiciary, highlighting perceived inconsistencies in his stance when court decisions have not favoured him. Gupta stated that the public is noticing his alleged misconduct and is likely to respond.

She further critiqued him for previously celebrating judicial victories, asking what fears now compel Kejriwal to challenge the judiciary. Gupta expressed confidence that the public would ensure that justice prevails, emphasising that faith in the judicial system remains strong across the country.

Kejriwal’s Arguments in Delhi High Court

The comments from Gupta come on the heels of Kejriwal’s recent arguments before the Delhi High Court, where he sought the recusal of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma in the ongoing CBI investigation related to the excise policy. Kejriwal appeared in person, articulating that even a reasonable apprehension of bias is sufficient legal ground for recusal.

During the proceedings, he presented ten specific arguments to substantiate his plea, emphasising that the core issue revolves around perception rather than the actual proof of bias. He expressed concerns about previous court observations in related matters, which he argued could overshadow the current case.

Kejriwal contrasted these earlier observations with the trial court’s discharge order, which concluded that no bribery or proceeds of crime had been established. He underscored his belief that interim interventions by the High Court, particularly a controversial order from March 9, risk undermining the trial court’s findings, raising a significant question of judicial urgency.

High Court Proceedings and Future Developments

In the court, Kejriwal additionally pointed out the rapid pace of the proceedings, which he claimed is unusually swift compared to other cases involving opposition leaders. He requested fair treatment, referring to instances where recusal was granted based solely on apprehensions, arguing that his concerns are equally valid.

Throughout his arguments, he maintained that his plea is procedural and limited in scope, clarifying that the recusal matter pertains strictly to the relationship between the court and the parties involved, not the prosecuting agency. The High Court has indicated that it will focus solely on the recusal application and will separately consider the merits of the trial court’s discharge order.

As the legal proceedings progress, the High Court is currently evaluating the CBI’s challenge to the trial court’s discharge decision regarding Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, and others implicated in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 case. The resolution of these issues is anticipated to have significant implications for all parties involved.

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