Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has filed a challenge in the Delhi High Court against his recent arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case linked to the now-defunct liquor policy. The matter was brought before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, with Kejriwal’s counsel, Senior Advocate Abhishek Singhvi, questioning the agency’s tactics during the proceedings.
During the hearing, Singhvi criticized the ED’s request for a three-week extension to file a detailed response, deeming it as “completely mala fide.” He emphasized that even a day of incarceration is a fundamental rights issue. Singhvi further argued that the arrest lacked interrogation, suggesting a politically motivated action by the ED.
Singhvi raised concerns about the arrest’s timing and the alleged absence of proper inquiry, accusing the ED of undermining democratic principles and constitutional safeguards. He highlighted the pattern of arrests followed by the ED, including subsequent statements and plea bargains, questioning the credibility of approvers produced by the agency.
In response, ED’s counsel SV Raju defended the agency’s right to file replies and argued for due process in the proceedings. The court indicated that it would issue an order by 4 pm.
Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest comes amid allegations of irregularities in Delhi’s liquor policy, with AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh also facing charges in the case. The opposition leaders have refuted these allegations, criticizing the central government for alleged political manipulation through probe agencies like the ED and CBI.
The AAP has condemned the timing of Kejriwal’s arrest, alleging it as an attempt to disrupt his campaigning for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Despite his confinement, AAP ministers assure the public that Kejriwal continues to discharge his duties as Chief Minister, reiterating their commitment to Delhi’s welfare.