In a significant development on Thursday, a Delhi court extended the judicial custody of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal until August 20 in connection with a corruption case being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The extension comes amid ongoing scrutiny related to the alleged excise scam that has drawn considerable attention.
Court Proceedings and Custody Extension
Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, presiding over the case, extended Kejriwal’s custody after he appeared before the court via video conference. This extension underscores the court’s continued focus on the high-profile corruption case that has enveloped the Delhi Chief Minister.
The court is scheduled to deliberate on August 12 regarding a supplementary charge sheet filed by the CBI. The charge sheet includes additional details and allegations against Kejriwal, further complicating the legal landscape for the embattled leader.
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Background of the Case
The CBI’s investigation into the excise policy case has been marked by allegations of Kejriwal’s involvement as one of the primary conspirators. The judge noted that the investigation was ongoing and expressed concerns about the potential for witness tampering, citing the CBI’s apprehensions.
Kejriwal, 55, was initially arrested by the CBI on June 26 while already in judicial custody at Tihar Jail in a related money laundering case pursued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED had arrested Kejriwal earlier on March 21, which led to a complex legal situation involving both the ED and the CBI.
Bail Status and Implications
Although the Supreme Court granted interim bail to Kejriwal in the ED case on July 12, the Chief Minister remains in Tihar Jail. He has yet to provide the necessary bail bond, which has kept him in custody.
The extension of Kejriwal’s judicial custody reflects the gravity of the allegations and the ongoing judicial process. The case continues to attract significant public and media attention, with implications that could affect the political landscape in Delhi and beyond.
As the investigation progresses and further legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on the developments in this high-stakes case, which has captivated both political observers and the general public alike.
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