NEW DELHI: Delhi high court rebuked the AAP-led Delhi government over its delayed response to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on “liquorgate” that allegedly observed several irregularities in excise policy and its implementation.
The court expressed concerns over the government’s failure to promptly act on the CAG’s findings.
“The way you have dragged your feet raises doubts about your bonafides,” remarked the court. “You should have promptly forwarded the reports to the Speaker and initiated a discussion in the House.”
The court fixed hearing on the matter at 2:30 pm today.
The CAG report, compiled after scrutinizing the Delhi government’s handling of liquor regulation and supply from 2017 to 2021, unearthed significant lapses akin to those flagged by investigative agencies like the CBI and ED. Estimated at a staggering Rs 2,027 crore, the report identifies a substantial loss to the exchequer due to systemic irregularities.
Sources have authenticated its contents, which underscore multiple violations, including licensing irregularities, pricing discrepancies, and deficient monitoring.
The report pointed to the absence of stringent quality controls and flawed inventory management, which further compromised the regulatory system. The AAP government was also accused of bypassing necessary approvals and expert committee recommendations in formulating the 2021-22 excise policy. The decision to allow private entities to take over state-controlled operations and the relaxation of policies potentially favored certain stakeholders, raising questions about transparency and financial propriety.
The Delhi assembly elections will be held on February 5, with results set to be announced on February 8. AAP, which won 62 out of 70 seats in 2020, is aiming for a third consecutive full term in office.
