Delhi Court Grants Bail to Arvind Kejriwal
New Delhi, Jun 20: In a significant development, a Delhi court granted bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday in a high-profile money laundering case linked to the alleged excise scam. The decision marks a crucial juncture in the ongoing legal proceedings involving the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader.
Special Judge Niyay Bindu presided over the hearing and granted the bail on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh. The court’s decision to provide relief to Kejriwal underscores the intense legal battles that have characterized the case thus far. The ruling came after thorough arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defence counsel regarding Kejriwal’s application for regular bail.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had requested the court to stay the bail order for 48 hours, but this plea was declined. The ED’s appeal for a stay indicated their intent to potentially challenge the bail order or seek further legal remedies. However, Judge Bindu’s refusal to grant the stay highlights the court’s commitment to its decision.
Kejriwal’s bail comes amid a politically charged atmosphere, with the excise scam case drawing significant public and media attention. The case alleges financial irregularities and money laundering related to the excise policies implemented by the Delhi government. The accusations have led to intense scrutiny of Kejriwal and his administration.
On Wednesday, the same court had extended Kejriwal’s judicial custody until July 3, adding another layer of complexity to the case. The extension of custody was a significant move, indicating the seriousness with which the court views the charges against the Chief Minister. The bail granted today provides temporary relief but does not mark the end of the legal hurdles for Kejriwal.
The AAP leader’s legal team argued vigorously for his bail, emphasizing his cooperation with the investigation and his prominent public position. They contended that the charges were politically motivated and that Kejriwal posed no flight risk. These arguments played a pivotal role in the judge’s decision to grant bail.
The prosecution, on the other hand, maintained that Kejriwal’s release could potentially interfere with the ongoing investigation. They underscored the gravity of the allegations and the need for continued judicial custody to prevent any tampering with evidence. Despite these assertions, the court found the defence’s arguments more compelling in this instance.
As the legal proceedings continue, the focus will remain on the upcoming hearings and the strategies employed by both sides. Kejriwal’s bail is a temporary reprieve in a case that promises to be a prolonged legal battle, reflecting the intersection of law, politics, and governance in India’s capital.
