The Supreme Court on Friday has granted bail to businessman Amandeep Singh Dhall, who is embroiled in a corruption case linked to the excise policy scam.
This ruling marks a significant development, as all individuals accused in the Delhi excise policy case are now out on bail.
Dhall had previously challenged a June 4 decision by the Delhi High Court, which denied his bail application. His arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation occurred in April last year, and he faces allegations in separate cases that are also being investigated by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate.
Investigators allege that Dhall conspired with other accused parties and played an “active” role in the formulation of the controversial liquor policy. He is accused of facilitating kickbacks to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and aiding in the recovery of funds by a group referred to as the “South Group” through various means.
The CBI and ED claim that significant irregularities were committed during the modification of the excise policy, which favored certain license holders unduly.
The Delhi excise policy was implemented by the Delhi government on November 17, 2021, but it was scrapped by the end of September 2022 amid mounting corruption allegations.
In its June 4 ruling, the high court cited the serious nature of the allegations against Dhall as a reason for denying bail. The court noted that many witnesses in the case were known to Dhall and highlighted his connections with “influential leaders” of the AAP in what it described as a conspiracy. Due to these factors, the high court concluded that he did not meet the criteria for bail.
Dhall’s release on bail is a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigations into the excise policy scandal, which has drawn significant attention due to its implications for governance and accountability in Delhi.
As all accused individuals are now out on bail, the case continues to evolve, raising questions about the future of the excise policy and its oversight.
This decision by the Supreme Court underscores the complexities involved in high-profile corruption cases, particularly those that intersect with political interests.
As the legal proceedings unfold, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the situation develops and whether further action will be taken against those implicated in the scandal.
