A day after Arvind Kejriwal informed Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma of his decision not to participate in the Delhi Excise Policy case proceedings, Manish Sisodia has followed suit. Sisodia, in a letter to the judge, expressed his agreement with Kejriwal’s stance, citing conscience as the basis for his choice.
Sisodia referenced Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of Satyagraha in explaining his decision to align with Kejriwal’s position. He emphasized that his concerns mirrored those raised by Kejriwal and that he could not ignore the apprehension regarding impartial justice in the case.
Stressing that his move was not driven by animosity towards the judiciary, Sisodia reiterated his faith in the court system. He highlighted the importance of upholding public confidence in the judiciary and stated that continuing in the proceedings would compromise his conscience.
Acknowledging the potential repercussions of his decision, Sisodia noted that he was willing to bear any adverse outcomes in the interest of conscience. He clarified that his choice was guided by a commitment to integrity over convenience, despite the possible impact on his legal interests.
The recent development unfolds amidst the backdrop of the CBI’s challenge to the trial court’s discharge of all accused, including Kejriwal and Sisodia, in the corruption case related to the defunct excise policy. Justice Sharma, who had previously declined Kejriwal’s recusal request, opted to address the matter on its merits to uphold institutional integrity.
