On Tuesday, the Delhi High Court dismissed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea in contesting his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case related to an alleged excise scam. Meanwhile, AAP announced its intention to challenge the high court’s decision in the Supreme Court tomorrow.
Following the court’s ruling, Kejriwal, whom the ED has labelled the ‘kingpin’ of the liquor policy case, will remain in Tihar Jail until April 15, as per the previous order from the Delhi Rouse Avenue court. The high court stated that Kejriwal had “conspired with others” and actively utilized proceeds of crime, as per evidence presented by the ED.
Moreover, the court noted Kejriwal’s personal involvement in formulating the now-defunct liquor policy and his alleged acceptance of kickbacks. As the national convenor of AAP, Kejriwal was found to have engaged in activities connected to the scandal.
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, while delivering the verdict, highlighted the ED’s ability to present substantial evidence, including ‘Hawala’ transactions and statements from approvers, indicating cash transactions for Goa elections. The court deemed the arrest lawful, dismissing any claims of illegality in the remand process.
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