Delhi excise scam case: Court sends Manish Sisodia to CBI remand till March 4

Sisodia's counsel, while opposing the probe agency's plea for custody, submitted that the CBI says he changed his cell phones, but that is not a crime.

The Rouse Avenue Court has sent Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, arrested in a corruption case related to the excise policy, to CBI remand till March 4, a day after his arrest in the excise scam case.

Special judge M K Nagpal allowed the CBI's plea for the custodial interrogation of Sisodia. Earlier in the day, the court had reserved its order on the plea after hearing arguments from the CBI and Sisodia's counsel.

The CBI on Monday produced Sisodia before a city court. There was a heavy security presence in and outside the Rouse Avenue Courts premises. The probe agency has sought five days remand of the AAP leader before special judge M K Nagpal.

Sisodia's counsel, while opposing the probe agency's plea for custody, submitted that the CBI says he changed his cell phones, but that is not a crime.

The counsel said the policy was implemented after taking suggestions even from the Delhi lieutenant governor and that since it required consultations, there was no chance of conspiracy.

The CBI on Sunday evening arrested Sisodia in connection with alleged corruption in the formulation and implementation of the now-scrapped liquor policy for 2021-22.

Meanwhile, AAP leaders have defended Sisodia saying that he is 'innocent'. On Monday, the party members will stage protest near BJP headquarters.