Arvind Kejriwal to face ED today in liquor policy scam, arrest rumors swirl
In a shocking turn of events, Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at 11 am today, amid swirling rumors and concerns of a possible arrest in the infamous liquor policy scam. The political landscape is abuzz as the AAP alleges a targeted witch-hunt against their chief.
AAP Cries Foul over Political Conspiracy
The AAP has vociferously claimed that the central government is out to “destroy” the Aam Aadmi Party “at any cost,” with senior AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj condemning the summons as part of a calculated strategy to imprison Kejriwal and dismantle the party. These summons follow a refusal of bail to Kejriwal’s former deputy, Manish Sisodia, by the Supreme Court, citing a tentative ₹ 338 crore money trail.
Delhi CM Kejriwal summoned in liquor scam: Money laundering probe heats up. Photo courtesy of Yadhu Krishna BP/Wikimedia Commons.
Potential Arrest Looms over Arvind Kejriwal
This is the first time Kejriwal faces summons by the ED, having been previously interrogated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in April. The AAP braces for their leader’s possible arrest, with claims by Delhi Minister Atishi that the ED would take Kejriwal into custody, alleging a lack of real evidence and accusing the BJP of silencing opposition voices.
Accusations of Misuse of Central Agencies
The controversy intensifies with several members of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) backing AAP’s claims of central agencies’ misuse by the BJP-led government. Notable comments from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee underscore the belief that the BJP is attempting to suppress opposition parties ahead of next year’s elections.
Echoes of Past Arrests and BJP’s Denial
If arrested, Kejriwal would join the ranks of other senior AAP leaders who have faced legal challenges, including the arrests of Manish Sisodia, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, and Delhi Minister Satyendar Jain. Meanwhile, the BJP rebuffs these allegations, insisting on the independence of central agencies and attributing the AAP’s troubles to its “scams, corruption, and misdeeds.”
Background of the Liquor Policy Case
The core of this controversy lies in the alleged involvement of liquor companies in formulating an excise policy projected to yield a 12% profit. The CBI and ED are delving deep into the alleged kickbacks and laundering, magnifying the scrutiny on Kejriwal and the AAP, and shaking the foundations of Delhi’s political sphere.