India formally protests Germany’s remarks on Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) took a firm stand on Saturday, March 23, by summoning George Enzweiler, the Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy, over Germany’s public commentary concerning the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in relation to the Delhi liquor policy scam case. The Indian government labeled the German statements as clear interference in the nation’s internal affairs, stressing the move as an undermining action towards the independence of India’s judiciary.

Following the discussion at South Block, the MEA took to the social media platform X to voice its discontent, emphasizing India’s stature as a vibrant democracy where the rule of law prevails. The ministry’s statement underscored the inappropriateness of biased assumptions regarding India’s judicial proceedings, advocating for the natural course of law to unfold without undue external influence.

The German Foreign Ministry, prior to the summoning, had expressed hopes for a fair and impartial trial for Kejriwal, highlighting the expectation of adherence to democratic principles and judicial independence within the democratic framework of India. Germany’s call for the allowance of all legal avenues for Kejriwal, underlining the presumption of innocence as a fundamental rule of law, sparked this diplomatic tiff.

Kejriwal’s arrest by the Enforcement Directorate is tied to allegations within the Delhi excise policy scam case for the fiscal year 2021-22, involving corruption and money laundering accusations that led to the policy’s revocation. The Chief Minister is currently under ED custody until March 28 for further interrogation regarding his alleged involvement in the scandal.

This diplomatic episode between India and Germany underscores the delicate balance between international concern for human rights and the principle of non-interference in the internal matters of sovereign nations. It also highlights the global attention drawn by India’s political and legal narratives, reflecting the wider implications of domestic issues on international relations.