NEW DELHI — In a significant development, the Supreme Court has granted bail to Vijay Nair, the communications-in-charge of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), who has been in custody for 23 months in connection with the Delhi excise policy scam. The court’s decision comes after observing that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has failed to complete the trial on time, despite assurances.
The court highlighted that around 350 witnesses are yet to be examined, and Nair’s prolonged incarceration without the commencement of the trial cannot be justified. Emphasizing the principle that bail should be the rule and jail the exception, the court noted that keeping Nair incarcerated without starting the trial would defeat this universal rule.
The ED has accused Nair of receiving kickbacks amounting to ₹100 crore from the ‘South group’ liquor lobby. The case has seen the arrest of several prominent AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. While Sisodia has already been granted bail by the Supreme Court, Kejriwal remains in prison, with his bail plea still pending consideration by the top court.
The court’s decision to grant bail to Nair is seen as a critical juncture in the ongoing investigation and trial of the Delhi excise policy scam. Legal experts believe this ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that the right to a fair trial is upheld and that pre-trial detention is not used as a punitive measure.
Background of the Case
The Delhi excise policy scam has been a major political and legal issue, with allegations of corruption and money laundering involving high-ranking officials and politicians. The ED’s investigation has focused on the alleged receipt of kickbacks by AAP leaders in exchange for favourable policy decisions related to the liquor trade in Delhi.
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Implications of the Ruling
The Supreme Court’s ruling is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing investigation and the political landscape in Delhi. It raises questions about the efficiency and conduct of the ED’s investigation and the broader issue of pre-trial detention in India.
As the trial progresses, all eyes will be on the judiciary’s handling of the case and the potential impact on the political fortunes of the AAP and its leaders.