Delhi Excise Policy (2021-22) Corruption Case

The Delhi Excise Policy (2021-22) corruption case involves allegations of irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the new liquor policy in Delhi. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) initiated its investigation based on a CBI FIR that alleged a criminal conspiracy to provide undue advantages to licensees. The ED's probe specifically focused on money laundering aspects, claiming that illicit gains were generated and channelled through various individuals and entities. Sanjay Singh, a prominent Rajya Sabha MP from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), came under scrutiny for his alleged role in facilitating the policy's design to benefit certain liquor businesses and for reportedly receiving a portion of the kickbacks. The ED conducted searches at his premises and eventually arrested him on October 4, 2023, alleging his involvement in receiving proceeds of crime. He was subsequently chargesheeted by the ED. Singh consistently denied all allegations, asserting that the case was politically motivated. After multiple bail rejections by lower courts, the Supreme Court granted him bail on April 2, 2024, noting that the ED had no objections to his release at that stage, and observed that keeping him in custody without a trace of money found with him or his family was not warranted.