Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal Sentenced to Jail Until April 15; Tihar Prepares for Arrival
Credit: The Economic Times
01.04.2024: A recent development has shaken Delhi’s political landscape as Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been sentenced to judicial custody until April 15 in connection with the excise policy scam case. This decision was made by a Delhi Court following a hearing where the Enforcement Directorate presented Kejriwal before Special CBI Judge Kaveri Baweja.
The Additional Solicitor General SV Raju clarified during the proceedings that the federal agency was not seeking further custody but rather judicial custody for Kejriwal. This decision was influenced by Kejriwal’s perceived evasiveness and lack of cooperation during the investigation, as pointed out by ASG Raju, citing similar cases where extended custody was warranted due to non-cooperation.
The court’s decision to grant 15 days of judicial custody aligns with the ED’s request and marks a significant turn in the ongoing legal proceedings.
In preparation for Kejriwal’s stay, Delhi’s Tihar jail has undertaken sanitization measures, specifically in jail number five where he will be lodged. High-level meetings within the jail administration have ensured that arrangements are in place for Kejriwal’s arrival, scheduled for Monday evening.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has directed the Enforcement Directorate to submit a special note to the special judge regarding Kejriwal’s ability to issue orders while in custody. This directive came in response to a PIL seeking to prevent Kejriwal from exercising his chief ministerial duties while under the agency’s custody.
Amidst these legal developments, Sunita Kejriwal, in a public appearance, voiced her support for her husband, labeling him as a patriot and an honest individual. She shared a message from Kejriwal emphasizing his vision for a new India and listing his guarantees ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
These events underscore the intense scrutiny and legal challenges faced by Kejriwal, as he navigates accusations of conspiracy and impropriety related to the excise policy and alleged kickbacks from liquor businessmen. The unfolding narrative continues to captivate public attention and shape the political discourse in Delhi.