Kejriwal Appears in Person, SG terms Recusal Plea 'Frivolous': HC directs all applications be filed together for Consolidated Adjudication

The Delhi High Court on Monday took on record a recusal application filed by AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, who chose to argue the matter in person, even as the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta flagged the issue as serious and institutionally significant. The Court issued notice on the plea and scheduled the matter for further hearing, underscoring the growing tension around multiple recusal requests and their implications for judicial proceedings.

The courtroom exchange unfolded amid competing concerns over procedure and propriety. Kejriwal insisted on his right to personally argue the recusal application, stating that procedural hurdles prevented him from e-filing as a litigant-in-person. The Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, however, pushed back sharply, terming the allegations “frivolous” and warning that repeated recusal pleas could undermine the institution.

He also raised objections to Kejriwal appearing in person while still being represented by counsel, urging the Court to streamline participation and complete pleadings before proceeding further. Adding to the complexity, multiple similar applications had reportedly been filed, prompting concerns about parallel challenges and delays.

The Court, while refraining from immediate adjudication, emphasized procedural clarity and fairness. It recorded Kejriwal’s personal appearance and accepted the application on file, directing that replies be submitted and copies exchanged. Significantly, the Bench remarked, “If anyone else wants to file application for recusal, please do that so that I can decide it once and for all,” indicating its intent to address all such pleas together.

The matter has now been listed for further hearing on 13th of April at 2:30 PM, with directions for written submissions from all sides.