Supreme Court Grants Bail in High-Profile Delhi Liquor Policy Case

The Supreme Court granted bail to businessman Amandeep Singh Dhall in the Delhi liquor policy irregularities case. The court urged the CBI to prioritize the quality of prosecution over witness numbers, emphasizing a focus on securing convictions. Dhall must adhere to strict conditions, including court attendance at all trial dates.

The Supreme Court has granted bail to Amandeep Singh Dhall, a businessman implicated in Delhi's liquor policy irregularities case. On Friday, the court expressed its concerns over white-collar crime implications, urging the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to focus on enhancing the quality of its prosecution efforts, rather than the sheer number of witnesses presented.

Presided over by Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, the bench mandated Dhall's release on bail under stringent conditions, including compulsory attendance at each trial hearing. The justices highlighted a pressing message regarding the perception that affluent offenders can evade justice with temporary incarcerations, hence calling on the CBI to shift its priorities towards improving conviction rates through credible and robust prosecutorial evidence.

The court also noted potential delays in the trial, considering the CBI's plan to examine 300 witnesses, a process that could prolong proceedings significantly. Dhall, director of Brindco Sales Private Limited, has been detained since April 2023. The case involves allegations by both the ED and the CBI of corruption through excise policy alterations benefitting license holders, including fee adjustments and unauthorized license extensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)