Judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal extended amid allegations of corruption

The Rouse Avenue Court made a significant decision to extend Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s judicial custody until July 3. This decision came as Kejriwal, a pivotal figure in Indian politics, sought regular bail for the first time since his arrest. The custody extension by Special Judge Niyay Bindu marks another chapter in the unfolding legal drama involving alleged corruption and money laundering linked to the Delhi government’s excise policy.

Arvind Kejriwal was initially taken into custody on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under severe allegations. The charges stem from purported misconduct and financial irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the excise policy during his tenure. Notably, Kejriwal was briefly released on bail during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, which allowed him to participate in campaigning activities for his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). However, he returned to custody shortly before the vote counting on June 4.

During the recent court session, which Kejriwal attended via video link from Tihar Jail, the ED presented arguments highlighting his alleged direct involvement in demanding ₹100 crore (approximately $12 million) as kickbacks related to the now-retracted liquor policy. Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the ED, argued that the submission of a prosecution complaint and the court’s recognition of the money laundering charges substantiate the gravity of the allegations against Kejriwal.

In contrast, Kejriwal’s legal representation contested the need for extending his judicial custody, asserting that there were insufficient grounds for such a measure. They emphasized the political motivations behind the charges, pointing out that the accusations of corruption related to the excise policy, which was officially abandoned in September 2022, are unfounded and vehemently denied by AAP.

The case against Arvind Kejriwal is complex, involving elements of political intrigue and legal interpretations of alleged corruption. If proven, these allegations could severely impact Kejriwal’s political career and the public’s trust in AAP. However, the defense’s argument about the political underpinnings of these charges cannot be overlooked, suggesting a possible misuse of judicial processes for political ends.