In a significant development, a special court in Delhi has ordered the Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal until March 28. This decision comes in the wake of his recent arrest in a case related to money laundering linked to the excise policy. Special Judge Kaveri Baweja at the Rouse Avenue court issued the order following the ED’s request for a 10-day custody.
Allegations and Statements Surrounding Kejriwal’s Arrest
The Enforcement Directorate, in its submissions to the court, accused Arvind Kejriwal of taking advantage of his position as the Chief Minister of Delhi to facilitate money laundering activities associated with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The agency labeled AAP as a significant beneficiary of the proceeds of crimes. According to the ED, Kejriwal played a central role in the Delhi liquor scam, allegedly colluding with his ministers and AAP leaders. The agency further asserted that Kejriwal was involved in a conspiracy related to the formulation of the liquor policy, aimed at favoring certain individuals and entities while demanding kickbacks.
AAP Response and Political Fallout
Following Kejriwal’s arrest, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) issued a statement affirming that Kejriwal would continue to serve as the Chief Minister of Delhi. AAP leaders emphasized that there is no legal impediment preventing Kejriwal from performing his duties, even if he is in custody, as he has not been convicted of any crime. This assertion came amidst a flurry of political reactions, with AAP accusing the Enforcement Directorate of being a political tool of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the center.
Security Measures and Planned Protests
In anticipation of potential unrest following Kejriwal’s arrest, Delhi police bolstered security measures across the city. Heavy personnel deployment and multi-layer barricading were implemented, particularly around the BJP headquarters, where AAP leaders and supporters planned to stage protests. AAP leaders called on party workers to assemble and protest against Kejriwal’s arrest. Paramilitary forces were also put on standby to maintain law and order.
Kejriwal Overnight Detention and Legal Proceedings
After his arrest, Arvind Kejriwal spent the night at the ED office in central Delhi. Legal proceedings commenced the following day, with Kejriwal’s lawyers presenting arguments against the ED’s assertions. They challenged the grounds for Kejriwal’s arrest, questioning the agency’s interpretation of the evidence. Additionally, various political figures and legal experts weighed in on the arrest, highlighting the broader implications for democracy and the rule of law.
Key Events and Reactions
Throughout the day, several key events unfolded, including statements from legal experts, political leaders, and representatives from both AAP and the BJP. The arrest sparked nationwide discussions on the misuse of investigative agencies for political vendettas and raised concerns about the erosion of democratic norms. Meanwhile, preparations for protests and legal battles continued, underscoring the intense political climate surrounding Kejriwal’s arrest.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
As legal proceedings progress, the case against Arvind Kejriwal will likely undergo further scrutiny. The court’s decision to grant ED custody until March 28 sets the stage for intense legal battles in the coming days. Moreover, the broader political fallout from Kejriwal’s arrest could shape the landscape of Indian politics, with implications for future elections and governance.
Overall, the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has triggered a wave of political upheaval and legal debates, underscoring the complexities of governance and law enforcement in contemporary India.
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