timezonenews.comThe Supreme Court’s decision on May 10 to grant interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal until June 1 in a money laundering case related to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam has generated significant attention. However, this relief comes with certain conditions, one of which requires Kejriwal to surrender to the prison authorities by June 2.
The Bench comprising Justices Khanna and Dipankar Datta expressed their intention to issue a detailed order on the matter soon. They emphasized the potential consequences if Kejriwal were allowed to continue exercising his official duties or signing files while on interim bail. Justice Khanna noted that such actions could have a cascading effect, raising concerns about the integrity of governance and administrative processes.
This decision underscores the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring accountability and upholding the rule of law, irrespective of an individual’s position or influence. As the case progresses, it will continue to attract scrutiny and discussion, highlighting the intersection of legal proceedings with governance and public accountability.
Opposition leaders have greeted the Supreme Court’s decision to grant interim bail to Arvind Kejriwal with enthusiasm, emphasizing that it signifies an intensified effort in the “fight to save democracy.” Pawan Khera, a leader from the Congress party, expressed his approval, stating, “We welcome the intervention by the Supreme Court in granting bail to Arvind Kejriwal… We also hope that the prime minister gets enough time after June 4, when he becomes the former prime minister of India, to introspect sitting in Sabarmati Ashram the kind of politics he has indulged in.” Khera further expressed his wish for former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren to receive fair treatment in due course.
West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee expressed her satisfaction with Mr. Kejriwal being granted interim bail, stating, “It will be very helpful in the context of the current elections.” NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar emphasized the nation’s commitment to democracy, stating, “I welcome the interim bail order granted to the chief minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal by the SC. India remains steadfast in the pursuit of democracy.” Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray highlighted the significance of justice and relief for Mr. Kejriwal in the face of what he described as a “dictatorial regime,” viewing it as a strong indication of changing times. Similarly, another Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, Priyanka Chaturvedi, hailed it as a “big win” for Mr. Kejriwal.
On Thursday, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) opposed granting any interim relief to the AAP supremo, arguing that if “unscrupulous” politicians receive bail for campaigning, it would essentially prevent their arrest, given that elections are a perpetual occurrence in India. The agency contended that such relief would create an incentive for criminals to become politicians, enabling them to remain in campaign mode throughout the year while continuing to commit offenses. This stance was presented in a 44-page affidavit filed by the ED.
Following the submission of the ED’s affidavit, the AAP issued a press release expressing its objection, stating that a complaint had been lodged with the Supreme Court’s registry. The party argued that the affidavit represented a “blatant disregard of legal procedures,” particularly considering that the matter is already scheduled for a final decision in the top court on Friday.
Mr. Kejriwal was arrested on March 21, just days after the Model Code of Conduct for the general election was declared on March 16. Presently, he remains incarcerated in Tihar jail, where he is serving his sixth stretch of remand until May 20.
