Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has faced a significant setback as the Delhi High Court has rejected his bail plea in the liquor scam case. Kejriwal had approached the High Court for bail, and after a long-delayed hearing, the court has now delivered its verdict, denying his application. This means Kejriwal will have to remain in jail if he is not found. This ruling is a major blow to Kejriwal and the entire Aam Aadmi Party.
Initial Reactions and Allegations
It was previously discussed that there was little hope for relief. The High Court’s rejection of the petition is a significant shock. Allegations have been rife in Delhi about the supposed liquor scam involving Kejriwal and his associates. It is claimed that Kejriwal, in collaboration with a South lobby, devised a scheme likened to a ‘Kamdhenu cow,’ continuously generating money. Allegedly, crores of rupees were flowing in daily, purportedly channeling the proceeds of liquor sales to the Aam Aadmi Party. Many viewed this case as an open-and-shut situation, with no evidence to prove innocence.
Technical Arguments in the High Court
The High Court hearing focused on technical arguments rather than claims of innocence. The defense did not argue their innocence or that no scam occurred. Instead, they contended that the arrest was technically flawed, arguing that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) did not follow proper legal procedures during the arrest. However, Justice Nina Bansal Krishna rejected these arguments, stating that the arrest was justifiable and legal.
Legal Proceedings and Future Steps
The court has upheld the legality of the arrest made by the CBI. The defense had argued that the arrest was illegal and sought bail on that basis. However, the court has dismissed the bail application, granting the liberty to approach the trial court for relief. This means that while the arrest is considered legal, Kejriwal can still seek bail from the trial court.
Potential Appeal to the Supreme Court
With the High Court declaring the arrest legal, Kejriwal’s legal team now has the option to approach the Supreme Court to challenge the arrest’s legality again. This process could prolong the legal battle, potentially delaying any resolution. If they decide to go to the Supreme Court, it could take another month or more for a decision.
Impact on the Aam Aadmi Party and Governance
The rejection of the bail plea is a significant blow to the Aam Aadmi Party. The party’s leaders and supporters had hoped Kejriwal would be released, allowing the government to get back on track. However, with no relief from the courts, this hope is diminishing. The rejection also raises questions about the party’s leadership and governance, especially with Kejriwal remaining in jail.
Public and Political Reactions
Reactions have emerged from various quarters. Some have criticized Kejriwal for his alleged involvement in the liquor scam and his governance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Accusations include alleged mismanagement of resources and spreading rumors. These criticisms add to the challenges faced by Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party.
Conclusion: A Long Legal Battle Ahead
Arvind Kejriwal’s legal troubles are far from over. With the High Court rejecting his bail plea, the next steps involve either approaching the trial court for bail or challenging the arrest’s legality in the Supreme Court. The Aam Aadmi Party faces a tough road ahead, with its leadership under scrutiny and governance impacted by these legal battles. The coming days will be crucial in determining the future course of action for Kejriwal and his party.
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