Arvind Kejriwal Takes Firm Stand in Delhi Excise Policy Case

Arvind Kejriwal, the former Chief Minister of Delhi, has taken a strong stance in the ongoing Delhi Excise Policy case, declaring that he will not attend any court hearings. Expressing a loss of faith in the judicial process, he plans to follow Mahatma Gandhi's principles of Satyagraha as a form of protest. This decision comes after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea for the recusal of Justice Swarnkant Sharma from the case. Kejriwal remains open to challenging any unfavorable decisions in the Supreme Court. The courtroom dynamics have become tense, with the judge highlighting the complexities of the situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 27, 2026, 10:33 IST

Kejriwal's Bold Decision

Former Chief Minister of Delhi and national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Arvind Kejriwal, has adopted a resolute stance regarding the Delhi Excise Policy case. He has communicated to Justice Swarnkant Sharma through a letter, stating that neither he nor his legal representatives will participate in any upcoming hearings.

Kejriwal expressed his belief that he no longer expects a fair outcome from the court proceedings.

Loss of Faith in Justice

In his message, he remarked, "I have lost hope of receiving justice from Justice Swarnkant. This decision is personal and based on my conscience." He further indicated that he plans to follow the path of Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha as a form of protest.

Kejriwal stated, "I have decided to walk the path of Gandhi's Satyagraha."

Potential Supreme Court Challenge

Kejriwal mentioned that he remains open to challenging the judge's decision in the Supreme Court of India if necessary.

Rejection of Withdrawal Request

This development follows the Delhi High Court's dismissal of a plea filed by Kejriwal and others, which sought Justice Swarnkant Sharma's recusal from the Delhi Excise Policy case. Justice Sharma rejected the plea, stating that the claims made lacked evidence and were merely based on allegations that questioned his credibility.

Courtroom Tension

As the judge began to write the decision, a silence enveloped the courtroom. The judge reflected on the burden of being someone who has sworn to uphold the Constitution of India, realizing that his silence was being tested, raising questions about the impartiality of both the judge and the institution.

Justice Sharma described the situation as a 'Catch-22' for the court, stating, "Now, regarding the request to withdraw from the hearing, I find myself in a position where whether I withdraw or not, questions will arise. The petitioner (Kejriwal) has created a scenario where he will emerge victorious either way."

Need for Solid Evidence

The court clarified that allegations of bias must be supported by substantial evidence, not mere suspicion. The judge emphasized that a litigant's general unease or fear that the court may not grant relief falls significantly short of the high standard required for a judge's recusal.