Arvind Kejriwal Arrested: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been sent to ED custody until March 28 in connection with the money laundering case related to Delhi’s liquor policy. This means Kejriwal will spend his Holi in ED custody. Despite the setback, Kejriwal stated that he would not resign and would continue to govern from jail. It’s worth noting that the court had granted a 10-day remand request from the ED, but Kejriwal will remain in custody until March 28.
“Will Govern from Jail,” says CM Kejriwal: Following the court’s decision to remand him, CM Kejriwal made a bold statement that he would continue to govern even from jail. He affirmed that he would not resign. Earlier, Kejriwal’s lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, had argued that he is the first Chief Minister to be arrested while in office.
ED Alleges Kejriwal as Mastermind: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleges that Kejriwal is the mastermind behind the Delhi liquor scam, claiming he conspired with government ministers and party leaders to benefit from the illicit scheme. The ED contends that the liquor policy was designed to benefit certain individuals, and in return, Kejriwal received bribes. The Directorate informed the court that Kejriwal was directly involved in formulating the excise policy.
ED’s Case Against Kejriwal: In court, the ED presented evidence indicating that Kejriwal was directly involved in using illicitly acquired funds during AAP’s Goa election campaign in 2022. They alleged that Kejriwal conspired to create the liquor policy to benefit certain individuals, leveraging his position as Delhi’s Chief Minister. AAP was among the primary beneficiaries of the ill-gotten gains.
Kejriwal to Remain CM: Despite the legal challenges, AAP leader Atishi stated that Kejriwal would continue as Delhi’s Chief Minister. She expressed disagreement with the court’s decision, emphasizing the lack of evidence even after a two-year investigation. Atishi assured that they would explore legal avenues and reiterated their commitment to uphold democratic principles.
BJP’s Response: The BJP has reversed its stance following the court’s decision, now asserting that there is substantial evidence against Kejriwal. BJP National Secretary Manjinder Singh Sirsa emphasized the court’s decision to remand Kejriwal, citing the presentation of 28 pages of evidence by the ED.
This development marks a significant chapter in Delhi’s political landscape, with the Chief Minister facing serious allegations and vowing to continue governing amidst legal turmoil.
