Manish Sisodia Released After 17 Months in Jail: A Landmark Moment in Delhi’s Liquor Policy Case
10.08.2024: In a significant development, AAP leader Manish Sisodia was released from Delhi’s Tihar Jail on Friday evening after spending 17 months behind bars in connection with the controversial liquor policy case. His release came just hours after the Supreme Court granted him bail, marking a turning point in this high-profile case.
Supreme Court’s Strong Stance
The Supreme Court, while granting bail to the former Deputy Chief Minister, made scathing remarks about his prolonged incarceration. The court described his nearly 18-month detention as a “travesty of justice” and questioned the trial court and the Delhi High Court’s decisions that led to his extended imprisonment. The bench, comprising Justice BR Gavai and Justice KV Viswanathan, emphasized the importance of protecting the right to liberty, one of the most fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
Emotional Return Amidst Supporters
As Mr. Sisodia stepped out of jail, he was greeted by a wave of jubilant AAP supporters who had gathered despite the heavy rains in the national capital. In an emotional speech, he expressed his gratitude and invoked the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, emphasizing the power of the Constitution in protecting citizens against unjust actions by those in power. He also vowed that Delhi’s Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, who remains in jail in the same case, would soon be released.
AAP Celebrates “Victory of Truth”
The Aam Aadmi Party hailed Mr. Sisodia’s release as a “victory of truth.” Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha took to social media to celebrate, calling Mr. Sisodia the “hero of the Delhi education revolution.” Sanjay Singh, another AAP leader who was previously arrested and granted bail in the same case, criticized the central government’s actions, claiming that Mr. Sisodia’s imprisonment was an attempt to derail his work in education.
Court’s Observations and Conditions for Bail
The Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail was accompanied by critical observations on the handling of the case by federal agencies. The court pointed out that with 493 witnesses listed, there was little chance of Mr. Sisodia’s trial concluding soon. The court also dismissed concerns about tampering with evidence, noting that most of the evidence was documentary and already in the possession of the investigating agencies.
However, the court imposed strict conditions on Mr. Sisodia’s release, including the surrender of his passport and a requirement to report to the Investigating Officer every Monday. The court also issued a stern warning that any attempt to tamper with evidence would result in his return to jail.
Manish Sisodia’s release marks a significant moment in the ongoing liquor policy case, highlighting the importance of judicial scrutiny in upholding constitutional rights. As the case continues, the focus remains on the remaining legal battles and the potential impact on Delhi’s political landscape.