In a notable development in Indian politics, the Supreme Court has granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption linked to the Delhi excise policy of 2021-22. Kejriwal, who has been in judicial custody since his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on June 26, 2024, had previously been granted interim bail by the Supreme Court in a related money laundering case investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Despite this, his bail in the ongoing CBI case had been pending.

The Delhi High Court had earlier denied Kejriwal's bail pleas and his challenge to the legality of his arrest, advising him to first approach the trial court. This led Kejriwal to appeal directly to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court's decision to grant bail reflects a critical turn in the case, considering the political and legal complexities involved.

The allegations against Kejriwal involve claims that several leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), including himself, were implicated in leaving loopholes in the excise policy in exchange for kickbacks from liquor lobbies. It is suggested that these funds were used to support the AAP’s election campaign in Goa. The Supreme Court’s ruling allows Kejriwal to be released from custody while the investigation and legal proceedings continue.