In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, once revered as an anti-corruption crusader, has found himself behind bars after being arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi liquor policy money laundering case.
Kejriwal's journey from a grassroots activist fighting against corruption to a controversial figure facing serious criminal charges marks a stark and defining chapter in his political career. The arrest comes after Kejriwal repeatedly skipped nine summons from the ED, alleging them to be politically motivated and illegal.
The Enforcement Directorate's move to apprehend Kejriwal came late at night, just hours after the Delhi High Court dismissed his plea seeking protection from arrest. A team of ED officials descended upon his residence, where they searched the premises and questioned him before effecting the arrest. Kejriwal and his wife's phones were confiscated during the operation.
The case against Kejriwal pertains to alleged irregularities in the Delhi liquor policy, wherein the ED claims that the accused, including Kejriwal, were involved in formulating policies that resulted in undue benefits to certain individuals and entities. The agency alleges that kickbacks were paid to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in exchange for these favors.
Despite his arrest, Kejriwal's party remains steadfast in its support for him. Delhi Minister Atishi announced that AAP has approached the Supreme Court to challenge Kejriwal's arrest, asserting that he will continue to hold the post of Chief Minister.
This isn't the first time Kejriwal has faced legal troubles. Earlier, he appeared before the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate in connection with a complaint filed by the ED, where he was granted bail upon furnishing a bond of Rs 15,000 and a surety of the same amount. However, the ED has persisted in its pursuit, alleging Kejriwal's involvement in various improprieties.
AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are already in judicial custody in connection with the same excise policy case, further complicating the situation for Kejriwal. The chargesheets filed by the ED repeatedly mention Kejriwal's name, alleging his direct involvement in the scandal.
Kejriwal's fall from grace, from a symbol of integrity and transparency to a figure embroiled in corruption allegations and legal battles, underscores the complexities and pitfalls of Indian politics. As the legal proceedings unfold and the case progresses, the future of one of India's most polarizing political figures hangs in the balance, leaving a nation in anticipation of what lies ahead for Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party.