NEW DELHI, August 9 — In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia, who has been detained for 17 months in connection with corruption and money laundering allegations related to the Delhi excise policy scam.

The bench, comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan, ruled that Sisodia’s prolonged incarceration without the commencement of trial violated his right to a speedy trial. The court emphasized that it would be unjust to compel him to seek bail through the trial court.

“The principle of bail should be upheld as the rule, while incarceration remains the exception,” the bench remarked. As part of the bail conditions, Sisodia is required to furnish a personal bond of Rs 10 lakh along with two sureties of the same amount.

Sisodia, who served as Delhi’s Deputy Chief Minister, was initially arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on February 26, 2023, over alleged irregularities in the implementation of the Delhi excise policy 2021-22. Subsequently, on March 9, 2023, he was also detained by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a related money laundering case.

Sisodia had resigned from his ministerial post on February 28, 2023. In his bail application, he argued that his extended detention without the start of the trial was unjustified. Despite opposition from both the ED and the CBI, the Supreme Court has granted him relief.

This decision marks a crucial turn in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the Delhi excise policy case, with implications for the broader discourse on judicial delays and bail jurisprudence.

Shimla, August 8 – The Met Office has issued an ‘orange’ warning for Himachal Pradesh, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning at isolated locations over the weekend. This alert comes amid ongoing active monsoon conditions in the state.

Key Updates:

Weather Warning: The Met Office has highlighted a low to moderate flash flood risk in isolated parts of Sirmaur, Chamba, Shimla, Kullu, and Mandi districts over the next 24 hours. The warning indicates potential hazards including landslides, damage to crops and vulnerable structures, and waterlogging in low-lying areas.

Recent Rainfall: Since 5:30 pm on Wednesday, several areas have recorded substantial rainfall. Shillaroo saw the highest at 86.4 mm, followed by Baggi with 76.6 mm, and Sundernagar at 64.2 mm. Other significant measurements include Mandi (60.2 mm), Gohar (57.4 mm), and Jogindernagar (53 mm). The continued rainfall has led to the closure of 109 roads across the state and disruptions to 58 power and 15 water supply schemes.

Rainfall Statistics: The state has experienced a rainfall deficit of 29 percent since the monsoon season began on June 1. Total rainfall recorded stands at 307.9 mm against an average of 435.5 mm for this period. However, recent rains have led to an excess in August, with 80.8 mm recorded against the normal of 78.5 mm.

Impact: The rainfall has resulted in significant infrastructure damage, including road closures and disruptions to essential services. As of August 7, the state has reported 94 fatalities due to rain-related incidents and incurred losses estimated at Rs 787 crores.

Residents are advised to remain cautious and stay updated with weather alerts. Authorities are working to address the impacts of the heavy rainfall and provide necessary support to affected areas.

New Delhi, August 8 – A Delhi court extended the judicial custody of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal until August 20 in connection with a corruption case filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) related to the alleged excise scam.

Key Details:

Court Proceedings: Special Judge Kaveri Baweja extended Kejriwal’s custody after he appeared before the court via video conference.

Supplementary Charge Sheet: The court is expected to review a supplementary charge sheet filed by the CBI against Kejriwal on August 12. The charge sheet details additional allegations in the ongoing investigation.

The extension of custody reflects the ongoing legal proceedings in the case, with further developments anticipated following the upcoming court review of the supplementary charge sheet.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar temporarily vacated the House on Thursday morning after a dramatic uproar and walkout by Opposition members. The commotion erupted when the Opposition sought to address the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Olympics.

Key Events:

Initial Incident: After the listed papers were tabled, Leader of Opposition and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge attempted to raise the issue of Phogat’s disqualification, questioning the individuals behind the decision. Dhankhar did not permit Kharge to address the issue.

Dispute with TMC: Derek O’Brien of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) also tried to raise concerns but was similarly denied the floor. Dhankhar admonished O’Brien, stating, “You are shouting at the Chair. Your conduct is ugliest in the House. I condemn your actions. Next time I will show you the door.”

Opposition Walkout: The opposition’s frustration led to a walkout, further escalating the tension in the House.

Dhankhar’s Departure: Amidst the escalating disruption, Dhankhar expressed his frustration and left the House temporarily, stating he was “not finding myself in a position to sit here” and departing “with a heavy heart.” Deputy Chairman Harivansh then took over to chair the Zero Hour proceedings.

The episode highlighted the ongoing tension and challenges in Rajya Sabha proceedings, particularly regarding sensitive issues and the handling of parliamentary conduct.