In a significant turn of events, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken legal action against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, accusing him of non-compliance with five consecutive summons issued in connection with the money laundering case related to the Delhi liquor excise policy 2021-22. The ED has approached the Rouse Avenue court, escalating the legal pressure on Kejriwal.
The Rouse Avenue court heard initial submissions on Saturday and has scheduled further consideration of the matter for February 7. Kejriwal now finds himself facing dual challenges, as both the Delhi crime branch and the ED intensify their scrutiny in two separate cases.
The ED has persistently summoned Kejriwal throughout the past year regarding the liquor interrogation, with the Chief Minister deeming the summons illegal and refusing to comply on November 2, December 21, January 3, January 19, and February 2.
Adding to the legal complexities, officials from the Delhi crime branch visited Kejriwal’s residence on both Friday and Saturday to personally serve him a notice. This notice pertained to Kejriwal’s allegations that the BJP was in contact with seven AAP MLAs with intentions to poach them. The drama unfolded on Saturday morning as AAP leaders questioned the insistence on delivering the notice exclusively to the Chief Minister. Eventually, the notice was handed over to officials, instructing Kejriwal to respond within three days, disclosing the names of the allegedly approached MLAs.
In response to the unfolding events, Kejriwal expressed sympathy for the crime branch officers, stating, “What is their fault? Their job is to stop crime but they are asked to stage drama instead, and that’s why crime is increasing in Delhi.” Kejriwal further criticized his “political masters” for pressuring him to reveal the names of MLAs approached for poaching, asserting that they already possess such information. He questioned the necessity for the ongoing drama, highlighting broader political tactics employed across the country.
As legal battles loom for Arvind Kejriwal, the coming days are expected to bring heightened scrutiny and further developments in both the money laundering case and the ongoing political allegations.
Sources By Agencies
