New Delhi: The arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has sparked a political storm, with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) challenging the action in the Supreme Court. The arrest is linked to the controversial excise policy case, which has already seen other senior AAP members in judicial custody. AAP’s move to the Supreme Court underlines the growing tension between the party and central agencies ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
Following the Delhi High Court’s decision to deny interim protection from arrest to Kejriwal, an ED team reached Kejriwal’s residence for questioning. This development came after repeated calls by the ED, which were ignored by Kejriwal citing concerns over the impartiality of the investigation. The case revolves around allegations of corruption and money laundering in the formulation and implementation of the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22.
AAP leaders, including Atishi and Raghav Chadha, have vocally criticized the arrest, calling it a conspiracy against Kejriwal ahead of the crucial elections. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Delhi Minister Imran Hussain echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the ideology behind AAP and Kejriwal cannot be jailed. AAP workers protested outside Kejriwal’s residence, calling it a demonstration of the party’s resolve against political vendetta.
AAP has taken the fight to the Supreme Court, demanding an urgent hearing to quash Kejriwal’s arrest. The legal move marks a turning point in AAP’s confrontation with central agencies, which could have potential implications for the party’s future and the broader political landscape in India. The outcome of this legal challenge could affect public perception and the election outcome, making it a closely watched event.
As the situation unfolds, Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest not only tests AAP’s resilience but also raises questions about the role of enforcement agencies in political processes. The coming days are likely to see intense legal and political battles, the outcome of which could reshape the dynamics of Indian politics.