Kejriwal’s release exposed high handedness of investigative agencies: Mehbooba Mufti

Former J&K Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Friday (February 27, 2026) said the release of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in an excise case has “exposed the high handedness of investigative agencies”.

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“When investigating agencies are wielded like political swords, justice becomes the first casualty, and truth surfaces only after years of pain and tears. Today’s judgement discharging Kejriwal, (AAP leader Manish) Sisodia and Kavitha in the excise policy case exposes the high handedness of investigative agencies,” Ms. Mufti said, in a social media post.

Ms. Mufti said there was no prima facie case, no credible evidence and yet years of incarceration. “Nothing is more dangerous than the misuse of power and the weaponisation of institutions. Yet somehow it continues unabated,” said the former J&K chief minister.

The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) welcomed the decision of a Delhi court. “The verdict reaffirms faith in the judiciary and the principle that truth ultimately prevails,” said AIP spokesperson Inam Un Nabi.

Mr. Nabi said the court’s observations regarding lack of evidence and investigative lapses highlight how political cases often collapse when tested before an independent judiciary.

“The decision sends a strong message that justice may be delayed, but cannot be denied. We hope that similar justice would prevail in the case of AIP Supremo and Member of Parliament from Baramulla, Engineer Rashid, who has also been a victim of political vendetta and prolonged incarceration despite representing the democratic aspirations of lakhs of people,” Mr. Nabi said.

He said the people of north Kashmir and the entire region continue to wait with hope for fairness and judicial relief. “The verdict revives hope among thousands of Kashmiris who have been waiting for justice for decades,” he added.