On May 21, Manish Sisodia faced disappointment as neither the Delhi High Court nor Rouse Avenue Court granted him relief. After the lower court denied bail, Sisodia approached the High Court but to no avail, as his bail plea was rejected - extending his judicial custody till May 31 by the Rouse Avenue Court.
While denying bail, the High Court made crucial observations regarding the handling of Sisodia's case. It acknowledged that while the prosecution presented a prima facie case against the AAP leader successfully, Sisodia failed to create a solid basis for bail.
This important observation suggests that there might be some lacunae in Sisodia's legal representation.
Such doubts become clearer when Sanjay Singh, arrested after Sisodia in the same case, is released, leading to speculation about the efficacy of Sisodia's legal counsel.
Does Sisodia lack adequate legal support?
Manish Sisodia received one significant dispensation from the court. It allowed him to meet his sick wife, an allowance seemingly not contingent on legal advocacy and granted based on humanitarian grounds.
Yet, we observe Manish Sisodia struggling to obtain even interim bail, while his fellow accused Arvind Kejriwal and Sanjay Singh are actively participating in political events, heralding election campaigns.
The Delhi High Court has taken serious note of the fact that Sisodia, as a senior leader of the AAP, holding 18 departments, has substantial influence over the government and the party. His status as a powerful and influential person in the corridors of power is undeniable.
Consequently, the High Court contended that Sisodia could potentially persuade others to change their statements if released on bail.
Did the defense fail to counter the prosecution's argument effectively? Did they fail to argue that Sisodia's influence is comparable to Sanjay Singh's, albeit not as impactful as Kejriwal's?
Is legal aid to Sisodia sufficient and effective?
Post-release on interim bail, Arvind Kejriwal visited his lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi. Praising Singhvi on social network X, he wrote, 'He has always been a source of strength for us.'
Does Sisodia lack similar access to proficient legal counsel?
