After spending 17 months in jail, AAP leader Manish Sisodia was greeted with cheers and slogans as he walked out of Tihar Jail. Despite heavy rain, his supporters remained undeterred, lifting him on their shoulders and chanting slogans in support of him and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal. Pics/ PTI
Updated On: 2024-08-09 11:01 PM IST
Compiled by : Sanjana Deshpande
Manish Sisodia’s release marks the end of a long period of imprisonment linked to corruption and money laundering cases associated with the Delhi excise policy "scam". The Supreme Court granted him bail, emphasising that his prolonged detention without trial violated his right to speedy justice.
Upon his release, Manish Sisodia was met with an outpouring of affection from party members who showered him with rose petals. Dressed in a maroon shirt, Sisodia greeted the waiting crowd, which included prominent AAP leaders such as Atishi, Sanjay Singh, and Durgesh Pathak.
Addressing his supporters, Sisodia expressed deep gratitude towards the Constitution and democracy, which he believes were instrumental in securing his release. He emphasised that his legal battle was brought to a "logical end" through the power of the Constitution, and he thanked the Supreme Court for upholding justice.
In his first remarks after being released, Sisodia paid tribute to Baba Saheb Ambedkar, expressing that his entire life is indebted to the architect of the Indian Constitution. Sisodia’s reverence for Ambedkar highlights his commitment to the principles of justice and equality, which he believes were crucial in securing his release.
Manish Sisodia’s release has reignited hopes for the release of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is also incarcerated in Tihar Jail in connection with the same case. Sisodia expressed optimism that the power of the Constitution and democracy would similarly pave the way for Kejriwal’s release.
Sisodia's release marks a significant victory in a prolonged legal battle that has seen him detained for 17 months without trial. The Supreme Court’s decision to grant him bail is seen as a vindication of his rights and a rebuke to what he described as "dictatorship" in the country.
Manish Sisodia’s arrest and subsequent incarceration were tied to alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy for 2021-22. Despite the serious charges brought against him by the CBI and ED, Sisodia has maintained his innocence, arguing that the charges were politically motivated.
