Delhi High Court judge Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma has initiated criminal contempt proceedings against Aam Aadmi Party leaders, alleging their social media posts “vilified” her in connection with the excise policy case. The judge said Arvind Kejriwal orchestrated a “calculated campaign” instead of pursuing legal remedies, warning that attempts to undermine court authority can’t hide behind free speech. Sharma also clarified she isn’t recusing herself; she will transfer the case, and the CBI’s discharge petition will be heard by another bench.
Farooq Abdullah reignited the liquor-outlet dispute in Jammu and Kashmir, saying a ban on alcohol could be imposed “within minutes” if the Centre compensates the revenue loss. Abdullah clarified he does not drink, arguing that people would still find alcohol outside if it is withdrawn locally, keeping consumption habits intact.
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The Delhi High Court will appoint three senior advocates as amici curiae in the Delhi excise policy case after Arvind Kejriwal and two other AAP leaders boycotted proceedings. The court plans to hear CBI arguments once the amicus is appointed on Friday. The case challenges the discharge of Kejriwal and others, setting up a fresh legal hearing momentum.
Karnataka has unveiled a draft excise policy aiming to reduce alcohol consumption by 8–9% over the next six years. The plan, announced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, shifts taxation toward beverage strength, introduces digital supply chain tracking, and simplifies licensing. It also targets illicit trade and proposes tighter outlet rules near sensitive zones to improve enforcement.
Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva sharply criticized Arvind Kejriwal’s letter to Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. Kejriwal said his concerns relate to impartiality in the excise policy case, but the BJP dismissed the move as political theatrics and an attempt to dodge consequences. The exchange signals fresh escalation in the Delhi politics crackdown narrative.
Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal has refused to appear before the Delhi High Court in the excise policy scam case, saying he has complete distrust in Justice Swarana Kanta. The decision follows the court dismissing Kejriwal’s plea for the judge’s recusal, where he alleged a conflict after the empanelment of the judge’s children as Central Government counsel.
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