Arvind Kejriwal moves fresh affidavit in Delhi High Court, citing apprehension of bias against Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma
April 15, 2026: Former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has filed an additional affidavit in the Delhi High Court, reiterating his demand that Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma recuse herself from hearing the CBI’s appeal in the excise policy case. The affidavit was submitted a day after the court reserved its order on the recusal plea, with Kejriwal alleging a “direct and serious apprehension of bias” due to the professional engagements of the judge’s immediate family members with the Centre.
In his submission, Kejriwal pointed out that the judge’s son and daughter are empanelled as government counsels and receive case assignments linked to the Centre, including from Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who is representing the CBI in the same case. He argued that this overlap raises concerns about impartiality, especially in a criminal matter where central agencies are directly involved.
The affidavit also cited procedural issues during the hearing, including limited opportunity to present rejoinder arguments and the continuation of proceedings beyond regular hours. Kejriwal further highlighted court directions issued during the pendency of the recusal plea, including deadlines for responses in the main case. The matter now awaits the court’s ruling, which is expected to influence the course of proceedings in the excise policy case.