Subsequently, the CBI accepted the request asking for more time to join the investigation. The CBI will now issue a new summons to Sisodia with a new date to join the investigation.
The CBI had called him in for questioning in relation to the Case of Delhi excise policy.
“I have received a notice from CBI that they want to inquire about the excise policy. As it is the last week of February, it is a very crucial time for me as the yearly budget of Delhi is being prepared. It is in the last stages. I I have asked them for time until the end of February so that the budget is finalised, after which, at the end of February or later, when they see fit, I will answer all their questions regarding the excise policy and make the matter clear.” Sisodia said.
“I have always collaborated with them and will continue to do so. This time however is essential for the budget, every day is important and a disturbance can affect the preparation of the budget and that is why I have sought more time. I am sure that the CBI officials they will understand that being the finance minister, my role in finalizing the budget is very crucial,” he said.
Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia summoned by CBI
He said he has always supported the detective agency and will continue to do so but this is a pivotal time for Delhi. “After the end of February, whenever they call, I will be happy to answer all their questions. I am sure CBI officials will understand how important Delhi budget is for Delhi and a finance minister how important my role is in the last phase of the budget”.
Sisodia had been called in for questioning on Sunday in connection with the case, nearly three months after a charge sheet was filed on the matter, officials said.
The AAP leader was not named as an accused on the charge sheet as investigations against him and other suspects are still ongoing.
CBI had conducted a search operation at Sisodia National Bank of Punjab locker in connection with Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 Money Laundering Case also last year in August where according to it CBI did not had found nothing.
Several raids were also conducted on 21 places in Delhi and the National Capital Region, including Sisodia’s residence and the headquarters of four civil servants last year, according to a CBI official. The official said the raids were conducted at locations in 7 states.
The investigation was conducted after taking into consideration a report forwarded by the Chief Secretary to Delhi Deputy Governor VK Saxena which recommended a CBI investigation into the matter.
The excise duty policy was approved by the Delhi government led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal amid the deadly Delta Covid-19 pandemic in 2021.
Clock Assessment in preparation: Manish Sisodia asks the CBI to postpone the questioning until the end of February
