The verdict brought emotional scenes as the former Delhi chief minister left the courtroom in tears. Kejriwal was arrested in March 2024 over allegations that his government accepted kickbacks during the allocation of liquor licences.

He spent several months in jail while the investigation continued, and the case became one of the most discussed political controversies in India.

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After the ruling, Kejriwal told reporters, “Truth has won,” while accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah of attempting to destroy the Aam Aadmi Party through a “political conspiracy.” He had consistently denied all accusations throughout the proceedings.

The Delhi court not only cleared Kejriwal but also acquitted his former deputy Manish Sisodia along with 21 others, bringing an end to the major legal battle that had influenced the political atmosphere ahead of elections.

During the case, Kejriwal lost the 2025 Delhi elections. Rekha Gupta from the Bharatiya Janata Party later became the chief minister of the city, which has a population exceeding 30 million people, marking a major political shift.

Kejriwal’s journey into politics began after he left his job as a tax officer to lead anti-corruption campaigns, which earned him national recognition and strong public support before he entered electoral politics.

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The case also highlights a wider trend, as several opposition leaders in India have faced investigations or trials in recent years. Critics argue these actions raise concerns about political pressure, while the government maintains that agencies are acting independently.

In August 2025, the government introduced a bill proposing the removal of politicians who remain jailed for 30 days, a move that opposition parties described as “chilling” and a threat to constitutional protections.