Kejriwal Calls Out Conflict of Interest in Liquor-Policy Case

Arvind Kejriwal, AAP chief, claims a conflict of interest in Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma's role in the Delhi liquor-policy case due to her children's ties with the central government. Kejriwal filed an affidavit, fearing lack of judicial neutrality, while the court reserved its verdict on the matter.

Arvind Kejriwal, the chief of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has urged the Delhi High Court to consider his affidavit pointing out a 'direct conflict of interest' involving Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. Kejriwal's concerns stem from Justice Sharma's children working as empanelled lawyers for the central government.

The judge, who is handling the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) petition against Kejriwal's discharge in the liquor-policy case, has decided to record the affidavit but clarified that she is not reopening the case after reserving the verdict.

Kejriwal's plea is based on Right to Information (RTI) documents revealing substantial legal work allocated to Justice Sharma's son. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta opposed the recusal request, urging institutional respect. The court has reserved its verdict, maintaining that Justice Sharma should not yield to pressure.

(With inputs from agencies.)