In a major political development, a Delhi court has dismissed all charges against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal in the Delhi liquor policy case, bringing an end to nearly two years of legal and political drama. The ruling, delivered by the Rouse Avenue Court, also cleared former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia of all allegations linked to the excise policy.
The court stated that there was no evidence of criminal conspiracy or malicious intent in the formulation and implementation of the excise policy. This verdict has given massive relief to the AAP leadership and reshaped the political narrative in Delhi.
Timeline of the Delhi Liquor Policy Case
The case began in October 2023 when the Enforcement Directorate issued its first summons to Kejriwal. Over the following months, he skipped multiple summonses, calling them politically motivated.
In March 2024, a sessions court granted him bail in complaints related to non-appearance. However, after the Delhi High Court declined to offer protection, the ED arrested him on March 21, 2024, following nine skipped summonses.
Later, in May 2024, the Supreme Court of India granted interim bail until June 1 for Lok Sabha election campaigning. Kejriwal surrendered at Tihar Jail on June 2 as directed. After months of legal proceedings, the Supreme Court granted him bail in September 2024. Finally, on February 27, 2026, the Delhi court closed the case by granting a clean chit to both Kejriwal and Sisodia.
Political Impact in Delhi
The judgment marks a significant moment in Delhi politics. AAP leaders described the verdict as a victory of truth. Meanwhile, opposition parties are expected to respond in the coming days. The ruling may influence upcoming political strategies in the national capital.
Separate Liquor Scam Case in Andhra Pradesh
While the Delhi case concluded, a separate liquor scam investigation continues in Andhra Pradesh. In a related development, the ACB Court in Vijayawada remanded Muppidi Avinash Reddy, who is listed as A7 in the case, for one day and ordered his transfer to Guntur district jail.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) questioned him for nearly five hours before presenting him in court. According to the remand report, officials alleged that Avinash Reddy played a key role in forming a liquor syndicate and managing financial transactions worth crores of rupees. Authorities claim that certain liquor brands allegedly paid kickbacks and commissions in exchange for purchase orders.
Investigators further stated that old brands were removed from the market and replaced with selected brands that offered higher commissions. Officials continue to probe financial links and potential additional arrests based on statements recorded so far.
As developments unfold in both Delhi and Andhra Pradesh, the political and legal implications of these liquor-related cases remain under close watch.
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