Delhi High Court Critiques AAP Government Over CAG Report Delays
In a recent session, the Delhi High Court expressed its discontent with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) administration regarding their sluggish response to a critical report from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). This report, which delves into alleged discrepancies within the excise policy—dubbed “liquorgate”—has raised significant concerns about governance and accountability.
Court’s Concerns on Governance Integrity
The court’s remarks were pointed, highlighting that the government’s procrastination in addressing the CAG’s findings casts doubt on their integrity. Justice Sachin Datta articulated this sentiment clearly: “Your delay in forwarding these reports to the Lieutenant Governor and your overall management of this issue raises serious questions about your bona fides.” The bench underscored that timely action is essential for maintaining procedural integrity within governmental operations.
In defense of its actions, representatives from the Delhi government cited challenges posed by upcoming elections as a reason for not convening sessions to discuss these findings. However, this explanation did little to assuage judicial concerns. The court has scheduled further hearings on this matter later today at 2:30 PM.
Significant Findings in CAG Report
The CAG report scrutinizes how liquor regulation was managed by the Delhi government between 2017 and 2021. It reveals alarming lapses similar to those identified by investigative bodies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED). The financial implications are staggering; an estimated loss of ₹2,027 crore has been attributed to systemic irregularities uncovered during this period.
Sources familiar with the investigation have confirmed that multiple violations were documented in areas such as licensing processes, pricing structures, and oversight mechanisms. Notably absent were robust quality control measures and effective inventory management practices—factors that severely undermined regulatory frameworks.
Moreover, allegations surfaced suggesting that AAP officials sidestepped necessary approvals along with recommendations from expert committees when drafting their excise policy for 2021-22. This controversial decision allowed private entities greater control over state-run operations while relaxing certain regulations—a move perceived by many as favoring specific stakeholders at potentially great cost to public transparency and fiscal responsibility.
Impending Elections Add Pressure
As political tensions rise ahead of Delhi’s assembly elections scheduled for February 5—with results expected on February 8—the stakes are high for AAP. In previous elections held in 2020, they secured an impressive victory by winning 62 out of 70 seats. Now aiming for a third consecutive term in office amidst growing scrutiny over governance issues presents both challenges and opportunities for party leaders.
This situation serves as a reminder of how crucial it is for governments to maintain transparency and accountability while navigating complex regulatory environments—especially when public trust hangs delicately in balance during election cycles.
Pratardan Mishra is a passionate Content Writer and Web Developer with a deep commitment to nationalism and political advocacy. Specializing in national issues, he utilizes expertise in writing to craft compelling narratives that champion patriotic values and engage politically minded audiences.