Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal arrested in high-profile liquor policy case
In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through India’s political landscape, Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the controversial liquor policy case. This development, occurring just weeks before the Lok Sabha election, marks a historic moment as Mr. Kejriwal becomes the first sitting chief minister to be arrested in the history of Independent India. Despite the arrest, the AAP has announced that he will continue to serve as chief minister.
The arrest follows a series of events where the ED branded Mr. Kejriwal as a “conspirator” in the liquor policy case, alleging a scheme designed to benefit a specific “South Lobby” of liquor traders in exchange for financial support to the AAP. This complex case involves accusations of policy manipulation intended to favor this lobby, with the alleged quid pro quo being a hefty sum of ₹100 crores to the AAP.
AAP leaders Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj had anticipated the arrest, noting Mr. Kejriwal’s previous avoidance of the ED’s summons nine times. The case also implicates other AAP leaders, including Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, alongside Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha, in the purported conspiracy.
The ED’s investigation has highlighted a network of meetings and communications between Mr. Kejriwal and various figures within the “South Lobby,” including Vijay Nair, who is accused of acting as a liaison. Nair’s frequent visits to Mr. Kejriwal’s office and his discussions about the liquor policy have been cited by the ED as evidence of their collusion.
The case took a dramatic turn with revelations from Raghav Magunta, a key figure in the “South Lobby,” and the testimony of C Arvind, former secretary to Manish Sisodia. These statements have contributed to painting a detailed picture of the alleged conspiracy, involving high-level discussions and policy manipulations.
This arrest represents a significant moment in Indian politics, raising questions about corruption, policy manipulation, and the impact on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. It underscores the intensifying scrutiny of political figures and their dealings, highlighting the challenges of governance and accountability in the world’s largest democracy.
Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest not only signals a pivotal moment for the AAP but also sets the stage for a broader examination of political ethics and the mechanisms of policy formulation in India. As the country heads towards crucial elections, the repercussions of this case will likely reverberate throughout the political sphere, influencing public perception and the electoral landscape.