Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal sent to judicial custody till April 15 in a money laundering case connected to a revoked liquor policy, just before Lok Sabha elections. He appeared before Special Judge Kaveri Baweja as his Enforcement Directorate custody ended.
The ED requested a 15-day judicial custody for Kejriwal, indicating possible further detention later. Additional Solicitor General S. V. Raju, representing the ED, alleged Kejriwal’s non-cooperation and evasiveness during custody, citing his reluctance to provide passwords for electronic devices.
Kejriwal, before entering the court, criticized the Prime Minister’s actions, referring to his arrest, as detrimental to the nation. AAP ministers Atishi, Saurabh Bhardwaj, and Kejriwal’s wife Sunita Kejriwal were also present during the proceedings.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court declined to entertain a plea seeking to restrict the CM from issuing orders while in ED custody. Instead, it instructed the central agency to submit a note to the special judge overseeing the excise policy case. The judge was directed to make suitable decisions within legal frameworks.
The court clarified that its decision didn’t comment on the petitioner’s legal standing, leaving the matter open for future deliberations. This development adds to the political turmoil as India gears up for crucial elections. Kejriwal’s detention amid allegations raises questions about the impartiality of law enforcement agencies and the potential impact on AAP’s electoral campaign.
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