AAP Leader's Bail Plea Hearing Postponed; Allegations of Immediate Attention Raised by Defense Counsel

NEW-DELHI: The Supreme Court of India has deferred the hearing on the bail appeals of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, Manish Sisodia, pertaining to two cases linked to the Delhi Excise Policy. The new hearing date has been set for October 4. Both cases are under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The Decision to adjourn was made during the hearing presided over by Justice Sanjeev Khanna and Justice S.V.N. Bhatti, as senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Sisodia, requested additional time for a comprehensive argument. Singhvi emphasized the need for immediate attention, stating, "I am in jail. We (both parties) agree. My hearing will take at least 2-3 hours."

Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju concurred with Singhvi's request for an extension. Singhvi further raised concerns about media coverage on this case and related matters involving Satinder Jain, claiming that articles in newspapers were affecting the case. The bench responded by highlighting the importance of not allowing media narratives to influence judicial proceedings.

On July 14, the Supreme Court had directed the CBI to respond to Sisodia's interim bail plea. Sisodia, who held the position of Deputy Chief Minister and managed various departments, including the Excise Department, was arrested on February 26 in connection with the alleged 'scam'. He has been in custody since then. Following his arrest by CBI, the ED also arrested Sisodia after interrogating him in Tihar Jail on March 9, relating to a money laundering case associated with the black money scam. Sisodia resigned from the Delhi Cabinet on February 28, subsequent to his arrest.