IN PICS: Manish Sisodia returns home after 18 months

Manish Sisodia, a former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi and prominent member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was released from Tihar Jail on Friday after spending nearly 18 months behind bars. The Supreme Court granted him bail in connection with alleged irregularities in Delhi’s excise policy.

The court imposed conditions on Sisodia, including the surrender of his passport and a prohibition on influencing witnesses. The decision came after a bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan determined that his prolonged incarceration without trial infringed upon his right to a speedy justice.

Sisodia, arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in February 2023, expressed immense gratitude upon his release. He attributed his freedom to the Constitution of India, drafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and expressed optimism about the eventual release of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Addressing supporters gathered outside the jail, Sisodia chanted patriotic slogans and expressed deep respect for Ambedkar, stating, “Ever since this morning’s order, I’ve felt a profound debt to Babasaheb. I don’t know how I can repay it.”

The CBI had accused Sisodia of being the mastermind behind a criminal conspiracy related to the excise policy. The investigation focused on alleged irregularities in the policy’s formulation and implementation.

Sisodia’s release has been met with jubilation among his supporters and party members.