Delhi excise policy scandal: Court extends ED custody of K Kavitha

In the latest development in the Delhi Excise Policy case, a court in Delhi has extended the Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha until March 26. The daughter of former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Kavitha is implicated in a significant scandal involving alleged kickbacks in the liquor licence distribution in the national capital.

The ED alleges that K Kavitha was a crucial member of the so-called ‘South Group,’ accused of facilitating kickbacks amounting to ₹100 crore to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in exchange for a considerable share of the liquor licences in Delhi. The central probe agency has been investigating the intricacies of this case, leading to Kavitha’s arrest from her Hyderabad residence on March 15.

Following her arrest, the ED sought a five-day extension of her custody, emphasizing the need for further interrogation. Kavitha was confronted with the statements of four individuals and a forensic report analyzing data from her mobile phone during her custody. Additionally, the ED informed the court of ongoing raids at the residence of Kavitha’s nephew in Hyderabad, indicating the widening scope of the investigation.

As the legal battle intensifies, Kavitha’s counsel has submitted a bail plea, awaiting court deliberation. This case has captured the public’s attention, spotlighting the intersection of politics and the liquor business in the governance of the national capital.

Kavitha, 46, a member of the Telangana Legislative Council, finds herself at the center of allegations that could have significant implications for political and business practices in India. As the court extends her custody, the coming days are poised to reveal more about the alleged corruption and its potential impact on political dynamics in Delhi and beyond.

The Delhi Excise Policy case represents a critical moment in India’s ongoing struggle against corruption within its political framework. The extension of K Kavitha’s custody underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are pursuing allegations of malpractice in public office. This case could serve as a benchmark for accountability, highlighting the need for transparency in the awarding of government contracts and licences.