Kejriwal Says “I Earned Only Honesty, Not Money” After Acquittal

February 27, 2026

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on 27 February 2026 addressed supporters with a celebratory roadshow in New Delhi following his acquittal in the long-running Delhi excise policy case. The Rouse Avenue Court had discharged Kejriwal, former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, and 21 others earlier in the day, saying the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case. Keen to use the moment politically, Kejriwal addressed cheering crowds and reiterated his belief in truth and honesty.

Kejriwal the national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) told the gathering that throughout his life he had earned only one thing: honesty, not money. He said the court’s verdict proved that allegations leveled against him were baseless and that his integrity was intact.

“I Earned Only Honesty, Not Money”

In his remarks to supporters, Kejriwal said the accusation that he benefitted financially from the excise policy was completely false. “I have earned only honesty in my life, not money,” he said, adding that the verdict reaffirmed his commitment to serving the public. He appealed to people not to lose faith in the Indian legal system and insisted that truth always prevails.

The roadshow saw party workers and supporters waving flags and chanting slogans in support of Kejriwal as he traversed key city areas in a convoy. Several AAP leaders joined him, and social media platforms quickly filled with video clips and photographs from the event.

Background of Excise Policy Case

The excise policy case stemmed from allegations that the 2021–22 Delhi liquor policy was framed in a way to benefit certain private players, thus allegedly causing loss to the government exchequer. Central investigative agencies, including the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED), had filed charges alleging corruption and conspiracy.

Both Kejriwal and Sisodia were named in the FIR and charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and anti-corruption laws. The case was highly politicized, with opposition parties, especially the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), demanding accountability and calling it a major corruption scandal.

However, the trial court’s verdict stated that the prosecution had failed to demonstrate credible evidence of conspiracy or personal gain by the accused. The judge noted that the charge sheet had serious gaps and that mere allegations without supporting material could not sustain a criminal trial.

Political Reactions to the Verdict

The verdict drew mixed reactions across the political spectrum. While AAP leaders and supporters celebrated the ruling as a vindication of their stance, opposition parties expressed disappointment. The BJP criticized the verdict, claiming that failure to secure convictions was due to lack of evidence rather than Kejriwal’s innocence. Several BJP leaders also accused the AAP of politicizing the matter.

Congress leaders offered a relatively moderate response, saying the judiciary should be respected and that emotions around court decisions must be tempered with faith in the legal process. Some regional parties urged both sides to allow the judicial process to conclude fully, including any appeals by investigative agencies.

CBI’s Next Legal Steps

Following the court’s discharge order, the CBI has indicated that it plans to challenge the judgment in the Delhi High Court. The investigative agency has argued that key evidence was not properly weighed by the trial court, and it hopes that a higher court will review the decision. Legal experts say the case may continue for months as appeals and legal arguments take shape in the higher judiciary.

Impact on AAP and Future Elections

Political analysts say the acquittal and Kejriwal’s public response could help the AAP regain momentum ahead of crucial state elections later this year. Kejriwal’s narrative of honesty and perseverance resonates with many of his supporters, and the roadshow may energies the party’s base. However, critics argue that the political battle over corruption allegations is far from over, especially as legal proceedings continue in higher courts.