Arvind Kejriwal Takes Firm Stand in Delhi Excise Policy Case

Arvind Kejriwal, the former Chief Minister of Delhi, has taken a decisive stand in the ongoing Delhi Excise Policy case, announcing that he will not participate in any court hearings. Expressing a lack 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, raising questions about the integrity of the judicial proceedings. Kejriwal also hinted at the possibility of challenging the court's decisions in the Supreme Court if necessary. The courtroom dynamics have become tense, with the judge acknowledging 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 strong 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 attend any upcoming hearings.

Kejriwal expressed his disillusionment with the judicial process, indicating that he no longer expects a fair outcome from the court.

A Personal Choice

He remarked, "I have lost hope of receiving justice from Justice Swarnkant. This decision is personal and stems from my conscience." Kejriwal further mentioned that he plans to follow the path of Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha as a form of protest, stating, "I have decided to walk the path of Gandhi's Satyagraha."

Potential Supreme Court Challenge

Kejriwal also noted that he would keep the option open to challenge the judge's decision in the Supreme Court 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 based solely 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, and the integrity of the judiciary was at stake.

Justice Sharma described the situation as a 'Catch-22', explaining that whether he recused himself or not, questions would arise. He noted that the petitioner (Kejriwal) had created a scenario where he could claim victory regardless of the outcome.

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 to recuse themselves.