ED opposes Arvind Kejriwal’s plea, says his health didn’t stop him from campaigning
· Kejriwal filed bail plea on medical grounds in liquor policy case
· Delhi court issues notice to ED, seeks reply by Saturday
The ongoing legal saga surrounding Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s involvement in a money laundering case linked to the now-defunct liquor policy took a new turn as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) adamantly opposed his bail plea. Kejriwal, who filed the plea seeking both interim and regular bail after being arrested by the ED on March 21, faced opposition during the hearing at Rouse Avenue Court.
During the proceedings, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju representing the ED, raised compelling arguments against granting bail to Kejriwal. Raju pointed out Kejriwal’s active participation in the ongoing Lok Sabha election campaign in Punjab despite purported health concerns. The ED contended that Kejriwal’s vigorous campaigning contradicts any claims of health hindrance, thereby refuting grounds for bail.
Raju emphasized the strenuous nature of campaigning, underscoring that Kejriwal’s recent activities were far from reflective of someone impeded by health issues. He emphasized the timing of Kejriwal’s bail plea, insinuating a strategic maneuver aimed at obtaining last-minute relief. The court took cognizance of the ED’s arguments and issued a notice, directing the agency to file a response to Kejriwal’s plea by Saturday.
Furthermore, the court sought the ED’s response regarding Kejriwal’s plea for interim bail on medical grounds, in the event that his regular bail plea is not granted. This development underscores the complexity of Kejriwal’s legal battle as he seeks reprieve amidst mounting legal pressures.
In a separate development, the Supreme Court declined to entertain Kejriwal’s plea for a seven-day extension of his interim bail, which is set to expire on June 1. The court registry rejected the application, citing Kejriwal’s option to seek regular bail from the trial court. This decision places Kejriwal in a precarious position as his interim bail nears expiration and underscores the urgency of his legal maneuvers.
Kejriwal, who walked out of Tihar Jail on interim bail granted by the Supreme Court, is now facing the imminent requirement to surrender by June 2. This surrender deadline, just two days before the scheduled vote counting for the Lok Sabha polls, adds a layer of complexity to Kejriwal’s legal predicament.
The ongoing legal battle not only showcases the intricacies of the Indian legal system but also underscores the intersection of politics and law. Kejriwal’s bail plea, amidst the backdrop of an intense election season, raises pertinent questions about the balance between legal proceedings and political engagements. As the legal drama unfolds, all eyes remain on the court’s forthcoming decisions and their implications on Kejriwal’s future political endeavors.
(With inputs from agencies)
