Delhi HC Issues Notice to Kejriwal, Sisodia in Contempt Case
Court acts on 'vilifying' posts against judge in excise policy case.
Top Summary
- What happened: The Delhi High Court issued contempt notices to Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and other AAP leaders.
- Why it matters: The case concerns alleged defamatory social media posts targeting a judge presiding over the Delhi excise policy case.
- What changes: The AAP leaders have four weeks to respond to the contempt notices, with the next hearing on August 4.
- Who is affected: Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, other AAP leaders, and potentially the public perception of judicial impartiality.
High Court Action on Contempt Allegations
The Delhi High Court has taken cognizance of alleged defamatory social media posts targeting Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma.
A division bench of Justice Navin Chawla and Justice Ravinder Dudeja issued the notices on Tuesday.
Details of the Contempt Case
The contempt case arises from the ongoing Delhi excise policy case.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has challenged a trial court order discharging Kejriwal, Sisodia, and 21 others.
The allegations suggest social media posts and online campaigns aimed to discredit the judiciary.
These actions allegedly sought to undermine the authority of the court after Justice Sharma declined to recuse herself from the matter.
Judge's Initial Observations
Justice Sharma had previously observed the circulation of
"extremely vilifying, extremely contemptuous, and defamatory material"
against her and the court.
She initiated contempt proceedings but transferred the main excise policy case to another bench for
"judicial propriety and discipline."
Court Directives and Next Steps
The High Court directed the registry to preserve copies of social media posts, electronic records, and publication records presented as evidence.
An amicus curiae will be appointed to assist the court.
The Additional Public Prosecutor accepted the notice on behalf of the State.
Background of the Excise Policy Case
The controversy started after a trial court discharged Kejriwal, Sisodia and 21 others in the alleged liquor policy irregularities case on February 27.
Justice Sharma had rejected Kejriwal’s recusal plea, stating it didn't meet the legal threshold.
Several AAP leaders boycotted proceedings before Justice Sharma following her refusal to step aside.
Justice Sharma emphasized the distinction between fair criticism and running a campaign to portray a judge as biased.
What to Watch Next
The AAP leaders must file their responses within four weeks, setting the stage for the next hearing on August 4.
The court's handling of the evidence and the appointment of an amicus curiae will be crucial in determining the outcome of the contempt case.