The Delhi High Court on Monday heard the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) plea challenging the discharge of former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others in the alleged excise policy case. The matter has been listed for further hearing on April 13, reported The Times of India.
Kejriwal appeared before the court along with his wife and informed the bench that he intends to argue his recusal application personally.
Kejriwal seeks to argue in person
During the proceedings, a bench of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma clarified that a petitioner can argue in person only after formally discharging their counsel. The bench asked Kejriwal, "You will argue your case yourself?" He responded, "I will argue this case myself. I will avail my legal rights. As of now, I have not issued my vakalatnama to anyone."
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Kejriwal also told the court, "I've filed a recusal application. Please take it on record."
Explaining procedural limitations, he said he could not e-file the application as a petitioner appearing in person and requested the court to accept a hard copy. "I will argue this application myself and exercise my legal rights thereafter," he added.
CBI objects to move
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the CBI, raised objections to Kejriwal arguing in person without discharging his counsel.
"I have no objection to him appearing personally, but he has already engaged a lawyer. Unless he discharges his counsel, he cannot argue himself—if he chooses to appear, only he should represent the case going forward. This forum is not for theatrics," Mehta said.
He also expressed concern over repeated recusal pleas and allegations. "Some people make a career out of making allegations. These are not just personal claims; they target an institution. This is something very serious that has happened in the capital of this country," he said.
Court issues notice, outlines process
Kejriwal maintained that he had followed due procedure. "I filed the recusal application as per the High Court procedure. A petitioner appearing in person cannot e-file, so your lordships may kindly take it on record," he said.
The court has issued notice to the CBI on the recusal plea and stated that other parties may also file similar applications if they wish.
Background of the case
The excise policy case relates to alleged irregularities in Delhi’s liquor licensing process during Kejriwal’s tenure. A trial court had earlier discharged Kejriwal and other accused, a decision now under challenge by the CBI.
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On March 11, Kejriwal and others sought reassignment of the case, citing a "grave, bona fide and reasonable apprehension" regarding the fairness of proceedings.
Earlier, the high court had also given the accused a final opportunity to respond to a plea by the Enforcement Directorate seeking removal of certain remarks made by the trial court.
