The Delhi High Court is set to hear Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi liquor policy scam case. Kejriwal has filed a petition seeking interim relief and challenging his arrest and custody by the trial court. The matter is scheduled to be heard before Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma at 12:30 pm.
ED Allegations
The ED, in response to Kejriwal’s plea, filed an affidavit alleging that he was the “kingpin” of the liquor policy scam and a “key conspirator” involved in money laundering. The agency claimed that AAP, under Kejriwal’s leadership, benefited from the proceeds of crime generated in the liquor scam. The ED further asserted that a significant amount of cash, approximately Rs 45 crore, was utilized in AAP’s election campaign in the Goa Assembly elections 2022.
Money Laundering Allegations
The central agency accused Kejriwal of supervising the laundering of bribe money received for implementing favorable liquor policies. Additionally, the ED alleged that kickbacks from the Delhi Jal Board scam were transferred to AAP as election funds. Out of the Rs 24 crore payment received by DJB, a portion was siphoned off or used for bribery, with Rs 3.19 crore being transferred to AAP as election funds.
Background of the Case
The case pertains to alleged corruption and money laundering in the creation and execution of the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22, which was later scrapped. The ED’s investigation focuses on determining the role of individuals, including Kejriwal, in orchestrating the scam and laundering illicit funds.
Arvind Kejriwal’s petition against his arrest and custody in the Delhi liquor policy scam case will be heard by the Delhi High Court, where both sides will present their arguments. The case underscores the gravity of corruption allegations against prominent political figures and the legal battle that ensues in ensuring accountability and transparency in governance.
