New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday hinted at the possibility of granting interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently in judicial custody, in connection with the liquor policy case. This consideration arises due to the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.
A bench comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta presided over Arvind Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest and remand by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Delhi liquor policy case.
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During today’s hearing, the bench deliberated on Kejriwal’s plea for interim bail but reserved its decision. It announced that the matter will be revisited on May 7, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the judicial process.
The court also inquired about Kejriwal’s ability to sign official documents while in custody at Delhi’s Tihar Jail since April 1.
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court had directed the ED to provide responses by May 3 regarding the circumstances surrounding Kejriwal’s arrest, particularly its timing just before the general elections.
Justice Khanna underscored the significance of liberty and questioned the timing of Kejriwal’s arrest, aligning with concerns raised by the defense.
Furthermore, the apex court demanded explanations from the probe agency regarding the delay between the initiation of proceedings and subsequent complaints.
Kejriwal, arrested on March 21 in connection with a money laundering case linked to the now-defunct Delhi liquor policy, will remain in judicial custody until May 7.
The Delhi High Court previously upheld the legality of Kejriwal’s arrest on April 9, stating no wrongdoing in the Chief Minister’s apprehension.
