'Judiciary Is Supreme': Anna Hazare Reacts As Court Grants Relief To Kejriwal In Excise Policy Case

Last Updated:February 27, 2026, 19:10 IST

Anna Hazare said that all citizens must accept court rulings in a democracy, irrespective of political differences.

Social activist Anna Hazare on Friday said the court’s decision to discharge former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in the excise policy case must be respected, asserting that the strength of India’s judiciary is what keeps the country functioning smoothly.

Speaking to reporters at his native village Ralegan Siddhi, Hazare welcomed the verdict and said the “judiciary remains the supreme institution in the country."

“Our nation runs because of the judicial system. In a country with many parties, castes, religions and ideologies, stability is maintained due to a strong judiciary," he said.

Hazare said that without an independent and effective judicial system, criminal elements would gain the upper hand, leading to chaos and unrest. He added that all citizens must accept court rulings in a democracy, irrespective of political differences.

Responding to his past criticism of Kejriwal during the probe, Hazare said his remarks were made before any judicial finding. “At that time, allegations were being discussed. Now the court has clearly stated that he had no role in any wrongdoing. We must accept the verdict," he said.

A Delhi court on Friday discharged Kejriwal, his former deputy Manish Sisodia, and 21 others in the politically sensitive liquor policy case, observing that there was no “overarching conspiracy or criminal intent" behind the policy.

The court also pulled up the Central Bureau of Investigation for lapses in its probe.

Kejriwal, who was arrested in March 2024 by the Enforcement Directorate and later by the CBI, spent 155 days in jail before being released on bail.

Hazare also described Kejriwal and Sisodia as his former “karyakartas" (volunteers), recalling their association during the 2011 India Against Corruption movement that demanded a strong Jan Lokpal law.

The movement later led to the formation of the Aam Aadmi Party, though Hazare distanced himself when it took a political turn.

When asked what advice he would give Kejriwal following the court relief, Hazare said, “Work for society and the nation. Do not think about yourself or your party."

News india 'Judiciary Is Supreme': Anna Hazare Reacts As Court Grants Relief To Kejriwal In Excise Policy Case

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