New Delhi | RBN News | 27 February 2026
In a significant judicial development, the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi has acquitted Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the alleged Delhi excise policy case.
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The court granted full relief to both leaders after concluding that the charges brought against them were not proven in accordance with law. The detailed order of the court is awaited and is expected to elaborate on the reasoning behind the acquittal and the assessment of evidence presented by the prosecution.
The ruling marks a major turn in one of the most politically significant legal cases in recent years involving the Delhi government’s now-withdrawn excise policy.
Court’s Decision
According to court proceedings, the trial court observed that the prosecution had failed to establish the charges beyond reasonable doubt. As a result, both accused were acquitted of the criminal allegations linked to the formulation and implementation of the excise policy.
Key aspects of the order include:
- Grant of complete relief to the accused
- Judicial scrutiny of the prosecution’s evidence
- Clarification that other connected matters, if any, will be adjudicated separately
The court’s full written judgment is expected to provide detailed findings on evidentiary standards, procedural aspects, and the legal thresholds applied during adjudication.
Background of the Case
The Delhi excise policy case arose from allegations related to irregularities in the framing and execution of the now-scrapped liquor policy introduced by the Delhi government. Investigative agencies had alleged procedural lapses and potential financial improprieties.
The policy, which aimed to restructure the liquor retail framework in the national capital, was later withdrawn amid controversy and ongoing investigations.
Both Mr. Kejriwal and Mr. Sisodia had denied wrongdoing, maintaining that the policy reforms were intended to streamline the system and increase transparency.
The case had attracted considerable political attention, with the proceedings closely followed at both the state and national levels.
Legal Implications of Acquittal
Under criminal jurisprudence, acquittal signifies that the court did not find sufficient admissible evidence to sustain conviction. It amounts to legal exoneration from the charges framed in the specific proceedings.
However, legal experts note that investigative agencies retain the statutory right to challenge the acquittal before a higher judicial forum, subject to procedural requirements and limitations.
If an appeal is filed, the matter could be examined by the jurisdictional High Court.
The final strategic direction in the case will likely become clearer once the detailed judgment is made public.
Political Reactions Awaited
While formal political responses were awaited at the time of filing this report, the verdict is expected to influence ongoing political discourse in Delhi.
The excise policy case has remained a central issue in state politics and has featured prominently in public debate and electoral narratives.
Observers note that the acquittal may reshape the legal and political trajectory of the matter, though any further proceedings would depend on subsequent appellate actions.
What Happens Next
The next steps hinge on:
- Release of the detailed court order
- Decision by investigative agencies regarding appeal
- Status of any remaining or related proceedings
Until such developments occur, the trial court’s acquittal order stands operative.
