Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia is expected to be released from Tihar Jail soon, following the Supreme Court’s decision to grant him bail in a case related to the Delhi liquor policy. According to his lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Mr. Sisodia could walk out of jail later today or tomorrow, once the necessary formalities are completed.
Singhvi also expressed confidence that the court’s bail order would positively impact the case of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who faces similar charges. “This order will significantly benefit Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s case as well,” he stated.
Tihar Jail officials have indicated that Mr. Sisodia, currently held in Jail Number 1, is likely to be released through Gate Number 3, a common exit point for inmates in that block. However, alternative arrangements may be made if security concerns arise. The timing of his release will depend on how quickly the bail order is processed.
The Supreme Court’s bail order will first be submitted to the Rouse Avenue Court, where all required bail bonds and conditions will be fulfilled. After these formalities are completed, the order will be sent to Tihar Jail for Mr. Sisodia’s release.
A bench led by Justice BR Gavai emphasized that Mr. Sisodia’s extended incarceration without trial had violated his fundamental right to a speedy trial. “In matters of liberty, every day counts,” Justice Gavai remarked, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
This bail order marks a significant relief for Manish Sisodia, who has spent over 17 months in jail facing allegations of money laundering and corruption linked to the now-defunct Delhi liquor policy. The 52-year-old is among several Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders accused of accepting kickbacks in exchange for issuing liquor permits.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, also implicated in the same charges, has been in jail since March, except for a brief period when he was released to campaign during the Lok Sabha elections.