The 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.
May 10, 2024 | 18:03
Tihar Jail officials receive order to release Kejriwal
Authorities at Tihar Jail have received the release order from the Supreme Court for Mr. Kejriwal. “Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s release order has been received by Tihar jail authorities. He will be released shortly,” stated prison officials.
Security has been heightened outside the jail in anticipation of Mr. Kejriwal’s release. Additionally, preparations are underway outside his residence to give him a warm welcome. – ANI
May 10, 2024 | 17:59
BJP leaders react to the SC’s decision
In apparent response to the Supreme Court’s grant of interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, senior BJP leader Vinay Sahasrabuddhe expressed his view that the judiciary has taken a stance by intervening in the midst of elections.
On X, he stated, “By intervening in the midst of elections, the judiciary has aligned itself with a particular side. However, when the ballots are cast by the billion, their decision might not be favorable.”
Meanwhile, BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain emphasized that bail does not equate to exoneration. He further asserted that Mr. Kejriwal’s release would not sway the election outcomes, confidently stating that the BJP would secure victory in all seven seats in Delhi, as he addressed reporters in Patna.
May 10, 2024 | 17:53
SC imposes a string of bail conditions on Kejriwal
The Supreme Court has granted Mr. Kejriwal a 21-day release to campaign for the remaining phases of the Lok Sabha elections after spending 50 days in custody in connection with the money laundering case related to the alleged Delhi excise scam.
Under the court’s directive, he must surrender on June 2, a day following the conclusion of the seven-phase poll. Notably, the fourth phase of polling is scheduled for May 13.
Additionally, Mr. Kejriwal is prohibited from visiting his office or the Delhi secretariat and from signing official files unless necessary for obtaining the Lieutenant Governor’s approval.
The apex court has imposed several bail conditions, including requiring Mr. Kejriwal to furnish bail bonds of ₹50,000, along with one surety of the same amount, to the satisfaction of the jail superintendent.
Explaining the rationale behind the decision, the Supreme Court cited the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, noting that it is not feasible at this stage to conclude the arguments or deliver a final verdict on Mr. Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest.
“As the appeal is pending before us, we do not think it would be proper for us to direct the appellant – Arvind Kejriwal to approach the trial court for interim bail/release. This may not be apt in view of the legal issues and contentions that are under examination and consideration before us,” the court stated.
Highlighting the significance of the Lok Sabha elections, it emphasized that between 650-700 million voters out of an electorate of about 970 million will cast their votes to elect the government of the country for the next five years. “General Elections supply the vis viva (energy) to a democracy,” it added. – PTI
May 10, 2024 | 17:23
Sunita Kejriwal departs for Tihar Jail
Sunita Kejriwal has left the Delhi CM’s residence in Civil Lines for Tihar Jail to collect Arvind Kejriwal. His release is anticipated around 5:30 p.m.
May 10, 2024 | 17:14
AAP Leaders React to SC’s Decision
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has expressed gratitude for the Supreme Court’s decision to grant interim bail to Kejriwal. He stated that they would now intensify their fight to safeguard democracy. Mann emphasized that Kejriwal symbolizes a thought, not just an individual, and they would carry forward this ideology with greater momentum.
Other AAP leaders in Punjab echoed similar sentiments. Punjab Cabinet Minister Chetan Singh Jauramajra thanked the apex court for the interim bail. He asserted that truth always prevails. Another minister, Balbir Singh, expressed joy among party workers following Kejriwal’s bail. Singh attributed this to the power of prayers and thanked the Supreme Court, alleging BJP’s attempts to suppress the truth. He concluded by stating that truth has emerged victorious. – PTI
May 10, 2024 | 16:41
Kejriwal Set to Be Released at 5:30 p.m.
Sunita Kejriwal departs from the CM’s residence in Civil Lines en route to Tihar Jail to pick up Arvind Kejriwal. His release is anticipated around 5:30 p.m.
May 10, 2024 | 16:30
Interim Bail Doesn’t Absolve Kejriwal of Corruption: Delhi BJP President
Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva emphasized, “Just because interim bail has been granted to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, it doesn’t mean he has been absolved of corruption. He is the kingpin of the excise policy scam.”
May 10, 2024 | 16:29
Result of Prayers and Blessings: Sunita Kejriwal
Sunita Kejriwal expressed, “This is the victory of democracy. It is the result of many prayers and blessings of millions of people.”
May 10, 2024 | 16:28
Kejriwal to Present His Truth: Nana Patole
Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole stated, “With the Supreme Court’s decision, Arvind Kejriwal will get the chance to present his truth in front of people.”
May 10, 2024 | 16:27
SC Verdict Sign of Change: Aaditya Thackerey
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray remarked, “Arvind Kejriwal getting justice and relief against the dictatorial regime in the country is a huge sign of winds of change. He has been speaking the truth and that is what the BJP dislikes. More power to him and the INDIA alliance for Bharat. We will protect our Constitution and democracy.”
May 10, 2024 | 16:25
India Remains Committed to Democracy: Sharad Pawar
NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar remarked, “I welcome the interim bail order granted to Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal by the SC. India remains steadfast in the pursuit of democracy.”
May 10, 2024 | 15:53
SC Verdict Boosts Faith in Democracy: Delhi Congress
Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision granting bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, stating that this will boost the faith of the people in democracy.
“We have been saying that the BJP and its leaders have caged the establishments of democracy. Because of this, the sitting CMs were sent to jail. I appreciate the Supreme Court’s order of granting (interim) bail to Arvind Kejriwal. This will boost the faith of people in democracy,” he said.
May 10, 2024 | 15:52
Kejriwal Barred from CM’s Office: SC
Arvind Kejriwal shall not visit the chief minister’s office and Delhi Secretariat, the Supreme Court said while granting him interim bail.
May 10, 2024 | 15:45
Eyes of the Nation Moist with Happiness: Raghav Chadha
AAP leader Raghav Chadha expressed, “The eyes of every citizen of the country are moist with happiness, their brother, their son Arvind Kejriwal is about to come out of jail. The jail locks will be broken this evening and Mr. Kejriwal will be released. Heartfelt gratitude to the Honorable Supreme Court for protecting democracy. Long live the revolution, long live Arvind Kejriwal.”
May 10, 2024 | 15:42
SC Decision Upholds Democracy: AAP Leader
Senior AAP leader Jasmine Shah emphasized, “The people of the country will wake up and see how democracy is being attacked. In a way, the Lok Sabha contest is starting now and the INDIA alliance will emerge victorious. It is a historic order by the SC as it upholds the need for free and fail election and shows that there was an attempt to crush democracy.”
May 10, 2024 | 15:32
Anticipating Change: Saurabh Bharadwaj
AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj remarked, “A big change is going to come in the country now that Kejriwal is going to come out on bail to campaign in the election.”
May 10, 2024 | 15:25
Victory for Truth and Democracy: Atishi
Atishi, an AAP leader, asserted, “Today truth has won. The idea of democracy has won. Today those who believe in the constitution have won. Whenever the constitution and democracy have been in trouble, the Supreme Court has come to the fore and protected it. The dictatorial forces will be defeated and we can do this with the power of our vote.”
May 10, 2024 | 15:23
AAP Welcomes SC’s Decision
AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh stated, “Truth can be troubled but not defeated. The decision of the Hon’ble Supreme Court is welcome. The dictatorship will end. Satyamev Jayate.”
May 10, 2024 | 15:14
Ray of Hope: Gopal Rai
AAP leader Gopal Rai expressed gratitude, stating, “The Supreme Court decision is a ray of hope for those who love the country. I thank the top court for granting interim bail to Arvind Kejriwal.”
May 10, 2024 | 14:21
Detailed Order to Follow
The Supreme Court indicated that a detailed order will be passed soon. Justice Khanna mentioned that the Court will attempt to conclude arguments next week and also try to pronounce the judgment if possible.
May 10, 2024 | 14:20
SG Opposes Interim Bail
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta opposed interim bail, citing Kejriwal’s failure to respond to ED summons. Justice Khanna reasoned that he was arrested in March.
May 10, 2024 | 14:12
Interim Bail Granted
The Supreme Court granted interim bail to the Delhi CM till June 1. He will surrender on June 2.
May 10, 2024 | 14:07
Hearing Commences
The hearing has begun in the Supreme Court.
May 10, 2024 | 13:32SC to Hear Interim Bail Plea
A Bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta will hear the Delhi Chief Minister’s interim bail plea against his arrest by the ED in the Delhi excise policy case.
May 10, 2024 | 13:29
ED’s Counter to Kejriwal’s Claims
The Central agency stated that the arrest of Mr. Kejriwal was based on material evidence indicating his guilt of money laundering. It argued against differential treatment, emphasizing that such would violate the rule of law and the basic structure of the Constitution.
May 10, 2024 | 11:51
ED Warns Against Interim Bail
The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) cautioned the Supreme Court against granting interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the liquor policy case. It argued that if “unscrupulous” politicians are given bail for campaigning, none of them can ever be arrested, as elections are an “all-year-round phenomenon” in India.
May 10, 2024 | 11:23
Understanding Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest
The case originated from a report submitted by Delhi Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar to Lieutenant Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena in July 2022. The report alleged procedural lapses in the formulation of the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22, implemented in November 2021 but scrapped in July 2022. Allegations included kickbacks received by AAP leaders from alcohol businesses to influence the 2022 Assembly elections in Punjab and Goa. The ED claimed the scam involved providing wholesale liquor businesses to private entities with a 12% margin for a 6% kickback. Arvind Kejriwal
May 10, 2024 | 10:53
AAP Files Complaint Regarding ED’s Affidavit
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has expressed strong objection to the affidavit filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposing interim bail for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the Supreme Court. The party has lodged a complaint with the Supreme Court’s registry, labeling the ED’s affidavit as a “blatant disregard of legal procedures.” This action comes as the matter is already scheduled for a final decision in the top court on Friday. Arvind Kejriwal
