Kejriwal Challenges Judicial Impartiality in Excise Case

Arvind Kejriwal, the chief of the Aam Aadmi Party, has penned a letter to Delhi High Court Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, expressing his refusal to partake in the excise case proceedings before her, either personally or through an attorney. Kejriwal detailed his substantial apprehensions concerning the impartiality of the judicial process.

In his four-page letter, Kejriwal emphasized the democratic principle that justice must not only be executed but must also be perceived as fair. He articulated his decision to abstain from further participation as a method to uphold this principle, asserting that justice should be visibly served to maintain public trust in the judiciary.

Kejriwal, who previously sought the recusal of Justice Sharma due to perceived bias, highlighted issues such as Sharma's associations and past interactions potentially conflicting with impartiality. While affirming respect for the judiciary, he stated his intention to approach the Supreme Court if necessary, maintaining his integrity and conscience above legal implications.

(With inputs from agencies.)