Manish Sisodia Released After 17-Month Incarceration in Delhi Liquor Policy Case
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia, a key figure in Delhi politics and trusted ally of Arvind Kejriwal, was released from Tihar jail on August 9, 2024. His release came 17 months after his arrest in connection with the controversial Delhi excise policy case. The Supreme Court granted him bail, citing the prolonged incarceration without the commencement of the trial, which it deemed a violation of his right to a speedy trial.
As soon as Sisodia stepped out of the prison, he was warmly greeted by prominent AAP leaders, including Delhi minister Atishi and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh. A large number of AAP supporters had also gathered outside the jail to show their solidarity, waving flags and chanting slogans. The scene was filled with an air of celebration, reflecting the relief and support from his party and followers.
In his first address after being released, Sisodia expressed deep gratitude to the Constitution of India, crediting his release to the principles enshrined by Babasaheb Ambedkar. He described his incarceration as unjust and politically motivated, reinforcing the narrative that he was a victim of a “false case.” Sisodia’s remarks were laced with confidence, as he predicted that AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, who is also embroiled in legal battles, would soon walk free.
Sisodia’s journey through the legal system has been arduous. Arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on February 26, 2023, for alleged irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the Delhi excise policy for 2021-22, his bail pleas were rejected seven times by various courts before the Supreme Court finally granted him relief. The prolonged nature of his detention, without a trial, became a focal point of criticism, with many viewing it as a delay in delivering justice.
The Delhi excise policy case, in which Sisodia was implicated, has been a major point of contention between AAP and the central government. The policy, which was later scrapped, aimed at revamping the city’s liquor trade, but it attracted allegations of corruption and favoritism, leading to a CBI investigation. The arrest of Sisodia, who was serving as Delhi’s Deputy Chief Minister at the time, was seen as a significant blow to AAP, which has built its reputation on anti-corruption rhetoric.
Sisodia’s release has rekindled the political debate surrounding the case, with AAP framing it as a victory of truth over political vendetta. The party has consistently maintained that the charges against Sisodia were fabricated to weaken their leadership and undermine their governance model, which has gained popularity for its focus on education, health, and public services.
The atmosphere outside Tihar jail was one of triumph and resilience as Sisodia addressed the media and party workers. He emphasized the emotional support he received from the people of Delhi and across the country, stating that their solidarity kept his spirits high during his time in jail. Sisodia’s speech was not just a personal reflection but a call to action for his party members, urging them to continue their fight against what he termed as “dictatorship” in the country.
Sisodia’s release marks a crucial moment for AAP as it seeks to regain its political momentum ahead of upcoming elections. His statement that the Supreme Court’s decision was a “slap” to authoritarianism underscores the larger political narrative AAP is likely to push in the coming months. With Kejriwal and other AAP leaders also under legal scrutiny, Sisodia’s release is being hailed as a symbolic victory that could reinvigorate the party’s base.
As AAP rallies behind Sisodia, the case remains a significant chapter in the ongoing tussle between the Delhi government and central authorities. The outcome of this case and its impact on the political landscape will be closely watched, as it holds implications not just for the individuals involved, but for the broader dynamics of power in Indian politics.