Delhi Excise Policy Case: In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a supplementary prosecution complaint (charge sheet) against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh.This move comes in connection with an alleged money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy, escalating the legal battle.EDs Latest ActionThe Enforcement Directorate took AAP leader Sanjay Singh into custody on October 4, accusing him of involvement in the excise policy case. Subsequently, he has been held in judicial custody at Tihar Jail. On November 28, the Delhi court issued a notice to the ED on Singhs bail application, prompting further legal proceedings.Legal Proceedings and Hearing DateSpecial Judge MK Nagpal of the Rouse Avenue Court has directed the ED to file a reply by December 6 and scheduled the matter for a hearing on the same day. The legal battle intensifies as Sanjay Singh continues to face judicial proceedings.Background and AllegationsThe ED alleges that Singh and his associates played a role in the Delhi governments decision to grant licenses to alcohol shops and merchants in 2020, resulting in financial losses to the state exchequer and violating anti-corruption laws. The charges involve the Delhi liquor scam or excise policy case, revolving around accusations of irregularities in the Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi governments excise policy for 2021-22.Legal Ramifications and Previous DismissalsWhile the Delhi High Court recently dismissed Sanjay Singhs challenge to his remand and arrest, the legal battle continues to unfold. The EDs actions, including multiple search operations and the filing of a nearly 270-page supplementary charge sheet, highlight the gravity of the case. The agency has identified Singh as a key conspirator in the alleged irregularities.AAPs Stance and Refutation of ChargesThe AAP vehemently denies the allegations, stating that the Delhi governments excise policy did not involve cartelisation and refuting claims of bribery. The legal proceedings, including the first chargesheet filed last year, have thrust the case into the spotlight.CBI Involvement and Grounds for InquiryThe EDs actions originated from a CBI case recommended by the Delhi lieutenant governor based on the findings of the Delhi Chief Secretarys report. The report, filed in July, indicated prima facie violations of the GNCTD Act 1991, Transaction of Business Rules (ToBR) 1993, Delhi Excise Act 2009, and Delhi Excise Rules 2010.As the legal saga unfolds, the EDs charge sheet marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the Delhi excise policy case, further intensifying the legal scrutiny of Sanjay Singh and associated individuals.
