Judicial Custody Extended Again
The Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi has extended the judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal until September 3. The custody extension comes as part of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the now-canceled Delhi liquor excise policy for 2021-22. Kejriwal, who is currently lodged in Tihar Jail, is facing serious charges related to this case.
The Fourth Supplementary Chargesheet
The CBI has also filed a fourth supplementary chargesheet in the case, naming Kejriwal and five others as accused. The court has reserved its decision on this chargesheet, with a hearing scheduled for September 3. The charges against Kejriwal include corruption and money laundering, which have led to his prolonged judicial custody.
AAP’s Allegations Against CBI
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has accused the CBI of being biased and acting under the influence of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). AAP claims that the CBI is deliberately delaying the court proceedings to keep Kejriwal in jail. The party has been vocal about what it perceives as political vendetta against its leader.
Kejriwal’s Plea in the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is set to hear Arvind Kejriwal’s plea on September 5. Kejriwal has filed two petitions—one challenging the denial of bail and the other against his arrest by the CBI. The CBI, in its affidavit, has alleged that all key decisions regarding the excise policy were made under Kejriwal’s direction, with the involvement of then Deputy CM Manish Sisodia.
The Alleged Excise Policy Scam
The Delhi liquor excise policy for 2021-22, which was later scrapped, has been at the center of this controversy. The CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) are investigating allegations of corruption and money laundering related to the policy. Kejriwal and his party have denied any wrongdoing, insisting that the charges are politically motivated.
Political Tensions Escalate
The extension of Kejriwal’s custody has intensified the political tension between AAP and BJP. AAP leaders have accused the BJP of using central agencies like the CBI to target opposition leaders. In response, the BJP has challenged AAP to take their grievances to the Supreme Court if they believe the CBI is being unfair.
AAP’s Stand on Political Vendetta
AAP has consistently claimed that the charges against Kejriwal are part of a larger political vendetta by the BJP. The party argues that central agencies are being misused to target political opponents. This narrative has resonated with many of Kejriwal’s supporters, who view the ongoing legal challenges as a test of his leadership.
The Role of Judiciary in Political Cases
The judiciary plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of power in such politically charged cases. The upcoming decisions by the Rouse Avenue Court and the Supreme Court will be closely watched, as they could set important precedents for the future.