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The Supreme Court of India has granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia in the contentious excise policy irregularities case, marking a pivotal moment in a legal saga that has kept the political landscape on edge. Sisodia, who has spent 17 months behind bars, was released after the court found no substantial evidence justifying his continued detention.
Rishikesh Kumar, the advocate representing Sisodia, lauded the court’s decision, emphasizing that it adhered to the fundamental principles of justice and the right to bail. Kumar stated that the made it clear that in absence of credible evidence,there is no case for tampering. He further added that keeping a person in jail for such a prolonged period without concrete proof, contradicts the very principles of bail.
The Supreme Court bench, led by Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan, dismissed the pleas of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which had sought to keep Sisodia in custody under various charges, including those under Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Kumar further highlighted that the ED’s claim of concluding the trial within 6 to 8 months was unconvincing. “The Court has observed that, based on the current pace and nature of the proceedings, it seems unlikely that the trial will wrap up in that timeframe,” he added.
The ruling has sparked reactions across the political spectrum, with AAP leaders hailing the decision as a victory for justice. “This decision underscores the importance of individual liberty and the need for a fair trial process,” said an AAP spokesperson.
The ED, however, has yet to announce its next steps, leaving the possibility of further legal challenges open. As Sisodia walks free, the case remains a significant touchpoint in the ongoing debate over the use of investigative agencies in politically sensitive cases.