In the ongoing probe related to the alleged excise policy case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is poised to issue its fourth summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The move comes after Kejriwal refused to appear before the agency for the third time, citing concerns over the agency’s approach and its role in the investigation.
The ED had previously summoned Kejriwal on November 2 and December 21 in 2023 and January 3 this year. The chief minister’s refusal has escalated tensions, with heightened security outside his residence amidst speculations of a possible arrest.
Kejriwal’s five-page reply to the ED is currently under examination, and the agency is contemplating issuing another summons under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The AAP party alleges that the ED’s actions are politically motivated, timed just before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. On the other hand, the BJP accuses Kejriwal of evading the probe, emphasizing that no one is above the law.
The excise policy for 2021-22, implemented by the Delhi government, has been a subject of contention. The AAP denies allegations of corruption and maintains that the policy was scrapped after a recommendation for a CBI probe.
The unfolding developments are expected to intensify the political landscape, particularly concerning Shrikant Shinde’s Lok Sabha poll campaign.
