Sanjay Singh, AAP MP, Gets Bail After 6 Months In Jail In Liquor Policy Case
AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh has been detained in Delhi’s Tihar Jail since his arrest in October last year. Over allegations related to the liquor excise policy scam. The Supreme Court granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh on Tuesday, while questioning the Enforcement Directorate (ED). On the prolonged incarceration without a trial or the recovery of alleged bribe money.
During the proceedings, the apex court raised concerns about the necessity of Mr. Singh’s detention and questioned the ED’s decision to contest the bail plea. Eventually, the ED chose not to oppose the bail application. With Additional Solicitor General SV Raju stating, “without going into merits, I will make a concession in the bail matter.” The court took note of the absence of evidence or recovery of the alleged bribe money amounting to ₹100 crore, as highlighted earlier.
Sanjay Singh, AAP MP, Gets Bail After 6 Months In Jail In Liquor Policy Case
The ED’s decision not to contest the bail plea followed the court’s reference to Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Which allows the release of an accused if there is a prima facie belief that the person did not commit the offence and is unlikely to violate any laws while on bail. Notably, the court pointed out that Dinesh Arora. An accused turned approver in the case, initially did not implicate Mr. Singh in his statements.
Sanjay Singh’s arrest is linked to money laundering charges associated with the alleged liquor excise policy scam. Which has stirred controversy within the opposition party. Mr. Singh’s previous bail pleas were rejected by lower courts, including the Delhi High Court. However, the Supreme Court granted relief today, allowing Mr. Singh’s release during the trial proceedings. With terms and conditions to be determined by the trial court.
Importantly, Mr. Singh is permitted to engage in political activities but has been advised against commenting on the ED’s investigation. His release has been welcomed by his colleague and Delhi PWD Minister Atishi. Who expressed optimism with the phrase “satyameva jayate” (the truth will win). Atishi, along with other senior AAP leaders, has been vocal in protesting the innocence of Chief Minister Kejriwal, who was also arrested in connection with the same scam.
The ED alleges that the defunct liquor policy facilitated exorbitant profit margins, with a significant portion of the proceeds allegedly used to fund AAP’s electoral campaigns. Chief Minister Kejriwal, considered the central figure in the scandal, is currently incarcerated in Tihar Jail until April 15.