Revelations in CBI's Excise Policy Case Chargesheet: TDP MP's Request to Arvind Kejriwal, Rs 90-100 Crore Kickbacks to AAP Leaders

Revelations in CBI's Excise Policy Case Chargesheet: TDP MP's Request to Arvind Kejriwal, Rs 90-100 Crore Kickbacks to AAP Leaders

On July 29, 2024, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a significant chargesheet in the Rouse Avenue Court concerning the controversial Delhi Excise Policy 'scam'. The chargesheet implicates Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, alleging his involvement in a scheme involving substantial kickbacks to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders.

Key Revelations

1. TDP MP's Request and KickbacksThe CBI's chargesheet details a meeting on March 16, 2021, between TDP MP and liquor businessman Magunta Sreenivasulu Reddy and Arvind Kejriwal. During this meeting, Reddy reportedly sought Kejriwal’s assistance to influence the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22, which was under development at that time.The chargesheet alleges that Kejriwal not only promised support but also instructed Reddy to liaise with K Kavitha, who was then working with Kejriwal’s team on the policy. Additionally, Kejriwal purportedly requested funds for the AAP.

2. Substantial Kickbacks
   The CBI alleges that South Indian liquor business figures paid approximately Rs 90-100 crore in kickbacks to AAP politicians and other public officials. These payments were allegedly funneled through co-accused Vijay Nair, Abhishek Boinpally, and Dinesh Arora. The kickbacks were purportedly used to modify the Excise Policy in favor of these business interests.
   According to the chargesheet, these funds were returned through various mechanisms, including excess credit notes, bank transfers, and outstanding amounts left in company accounts.

3. Formation of Cartel
   The CBI claims that a cartel was formed among liquor manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers, violating policy provisions to achieve illegal benefits. This conspiracy allegedly caused significant losses to the public exchequer and resulted in undue gains for the accused.

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CBI's Justification for Arrest

In a supplementary chargesheet, the CBI labeled Arvind Kejriwal as the "sutradhaar" (mastermind) of the excise policy case. The agency argued that Kejriwal’s arrest was essential for the investigation, citing direct evidence of his involvement. Despite Kejriwal's bail in a related money laundering case, the CBI contends that his continued detention is justified due to the severity of the allegations and the need for further investigation.

Defense Argument

Kejriwal’s defense, led by Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, argues that the arrest is based on speculative and hearsay evidence. Singhvi highlighted that the excise policy involved multiple bureaucrats and committees, with Kejriwal's role being part of a broader process. He contends that the CBI’s case lacks concrete evidence directly linking Kejriwal to the alleged corruption.

Conclusion

The ongoing legal proceedings against Arvind Kejriwal and other accused have heightened political and public interest. The case reflects broader concerns about governance and accountability in the implementation of public policies. As the legal battle continues, the outcomes of these proceedings could have significant implications for the political landscape in Delhi and beyond.

Reference

• Times of India - Arvind Kejriwal Had Direct Role in Excise Scam: CBI Chargesheet
• India Today - Delhi High Court Reserves Order on Arvind Kejriwal's Bail Plea in CBI Liquor Policy Case
• LiveMint - Arvind Kejriwal Bail: Delhi High Court Reserves Order in Liquor Policy Case
• Business Today - Revelations in CBI’s Excise Policy Case Chargesheet: TDP MPs Request to Arvind Kejriwal, Rs 90-100 Crore Kickbacks Paid to AAP Leaders

Check out the above links for more details