Arvind Kejriwal seeks Supreme Court intervention over bail dispute

In a significant development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has escalated a legal battle to the Supreme Court of India, challenging the Delhi High Court’s decision to stay his interim bail concerning a high-profile money laundering case. The controversy stems from allegations linked to an excise policy scam, with the High Court setting a critical hearing for June 25. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader’s legal team is pushing for an urgent hearing on the matter by Monday morning, June 24.

This judicial contention began when the Enforcement Directorate (ED) contested the trial court’s decision to grant bail to Kejriwal. On Friday, June 21, the Delhi High Court responded by placing an interim stay on the Rouse Avenue Court’s order that had previously allowed bail for Kejriwal against a bond of ₹1,00,000. The AAP chief, arrested on March 21, faces charges of corruption and money laundering related to the formulation and implementation of Delhi government’s excise policy.

During the proceedings, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the ED, labeled the trial court’s bail decision as “perverse” and contradictory to Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The High Court’s vacation bench, comprising Justice Sudhir Kumar Jain and Justice Ravinder Dudeja, agreed to expedite the hearing following the urgent appeal by the ED.

Despite the legal entanglements, Kejriwal remained politically active during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, briefly released on bail. He participated in public gatherings and led campaigns for his party before returning to custody on June 2, just days ahead of the election results.

This case illustrates a complex interplay between law and politics, highlighting the challenges political figures face when legal and political responsibilities collide. The decision to involve the Supreme Court underscores the significant implications of this case, not just for Kejriwal but for the governance of Delhi.

As the legal proceedings continue, the impact on governance and public trust in the Delhi government remains a critical concern. The outcome of this legal battle could influence public perception and the political landscape in India’s capital.