Delhi High Court Orders Removal of Unauthorized Videos of Arvind Kejriwal’s Court Arguments

April 15, 2026 : The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Police to take down unauthorised videos circulating online that show former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal arguing in court in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case.

According to a court official, recording or sharing court proceedings without prior permission is strictly prohibited. Authorities have begun action against individuals responsible for filming and disseminating these videos on social media. The official noted that the Court has taken similar steps in the past whenever such violations have come to light.

The High Court rules clearly bar the recording or publication of videos of hearings, including those conducted virtually.

Kejriwal had appeared in person before the High Court on April 13, where he argued for over an hour on his plea seeking the recusal of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma from hearing the matter. Shortly after the proceedings, clips of his arguments went viral online. The recusal request was opposed by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.

The case stems from alleged irregularities in the Delhi Excise Policy for 2021–22. The Central Bureau of Investigation registered an FIR in 2022, alleging that the policy was manipulated to benefit certain liquor traders. The Enforcement Directorate has also initiated proceedings under money laundering laws.

Earlier, a trial court discharged Kejriwal and other accused, stating that no case was made out against them. That order has since been challenged by the CBI and is currently under consideration before the High Court. Justice Sharma had issued notice in the matter and stayed certain directions of the trial court, while also observing that some of its findings may be erroneous.

Subsequently, Kejriwal and other accused sought her recusal, alleging bias based on prior observations and her participation in an event organised by a lawyers’ group associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.

The CBI opposed the plea, arguing that the allegations were baseless and that attending a seminar does not indicate bias. It also noted that the judge had passed orders favourable to some of the accused in the same case.