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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is expected to forgo his fourth appearance before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the excise policy case, with the central agency issuing a summons for today. Citing prior commitments in Goa to assess Lok Sabha poll preparations, sources indicate that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader is unlikely to comply.
Arvind Kejriwal, facing the ED’s fourth summons, has prioritized his visit to Goa, where he plans to engage with party workers and evaluate preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This potential fourth absence follows earlier summons issued on November 2, December 21, and January 3, all of which Mr. Kejriwal sidestepped.
During a Delhi government event, the Chief Minister addressed queries about the latest summons, stating, “We will do whatever needs to be done according to the law.” His previous reasons for skipping summons included commitments related to Rajya Sabha polls and Republic Day preparations.
Arvind Kejriwal has been vocal about his skepticism regarding the ED’s intentions, accusing the agency of acting as “judge, jury, and executioner.” He contends that the BJP-led government aims to hinder his Lok Sabha campaign by arresting him. The Chief Minister argues that the summonses are a ploy to impede his election activities.
The ED, investigating the scrapped excise policy case in Delhi, has mentioned Kejriwal’s name in charge sheets, alleging communication with the accused during the policy’s formulation. The agency, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), contends that AAP utilized “proceeds of crime” in its Goa election campaign.
The excise policy in Delhi faced corruption allegations, leading to its cancellation. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took charge upon the recommendation of Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. The subsequent ED investigation delves into the money trail under the PMLA.
