Today’s biggest news is that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who was considered the “Kingpin” has been granted bail by the court in the liquor scam case. The Rouse Avenue Court today granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the Delhi excise policy case 20 Jun 2024, allowing his bail application on a bond of Rs 1 lakh. Interestingly, Manish Sisodia and many others involved in the same case are still in jail, as their bail requests have been rejected by various courts.
“Bail should be granted as far as possible, and jail when it’s a necessity” is a principle in the criminal justice system which has helped Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.
The decision came from the vacation bench of a special ED court handling the money laundering case. All arguments presented by the ED against Kejriwal’s bail plea were rejected. The ED had accused Kejriwal of being the mastermind behind Delhi’s liquor scam, alleging that he accepted a bribe of Rs 100 crore in the name of the Aam Aadmi Party. The ED claimed to have evidence showing Kejriwal’s continuous contact with liquor traders and his involvement in altering the government’s excise policy for their benefit. They also argued that if granted bail, Kejriwal could influence witnesses. However, the special court dismissed these arguments
Two key arguments led to Kejriwal’s bail. Firstly, Kejriwal’s lawyers contended that the case against him was based solely on biased witness statements. Secondly, they highlighted Kejriwal’s lack of a criminal background, suggesting there was no risk in granting him bail.
Considering these points, the court granted bail, allowing Kejriwal to be released from Delhi’s Tihar Jail tomorrow. The ED had requested 48 hours to appeal the bail decision in the High Court, but the special court denied this request, insisting that the verdict be pronounced immediately.
Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21. After 39 days, he received interim bail from the Supreme Court for 21 days to campaign. Upon surrendering to Tihar Jail on June 2, Kejriwal expressed uncertainty about the length of his imprisonment. However, within 18 days, he has now been granted bail and will be released tomorrow. Kejriwal expressed pride in being jailed for fighting against dictatorship and vowed not to bow down, even if it meant facing more torture or losing his life.
When Kejriwal was previously released from jail, the Aam Aadmi Party celebrated with great enthusiasm. This time, the celebrations are expected to be even grander. The ED had also arrested two senior Aam Aadmi Party leaders, Sanjay Singh and Arvind Kejriwal, on charges related to the liquor scam. Both have now been granted bail, while Manish Sisodia remains in jail.
This news has generated significant reactions. The Aam Aadmi Party is celebrating, with leaders expressing their happiness and support for Kejriwal. They believe this decision strengthens democracy and brings joy to the people of Delhi and the country. Some have criticized the ED’s case, suggesting it was based on lies and lacked substantial evidence. They argue that the central government pressured witnesses to testify against Kejriwal by offering inducements.
Overall, this development is perceived as a significant victory for Kejriwal and his supporters, However, analysts emphasize that granting bail does not equate to delivering justice, as the Delhi CM will continue to face accusations and undergo trial in court. The CBI is also conducting an independent investigation into the case and is expected to clarify any remaining uncertainties soon. Time will unveil the fate of Delhi CM and the AAP Party.