In a major blow by Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's interim bail plea has been dismissed. Kejriwal, citing health issues, requested a seven-day interim bail for necessary examinations.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed Kejriwal's request, suggesting that he misled the court as his health issues surfaced only when it was time to surrender. After listening to both parties, the court reserved its verdict to be pronounced on Wednesday.
Kejriwal appeared via video conferencing on Wednesday to hear the verdict on his application. The Rouse Avenue Court extended Kejriwal's judicial custody by 14 days, until June 19, and directed authorities to conduct the necessary medical tests. Judge Kaveri Baweja instructed Tihar Jail officials to pay attention to Kejriwal's medical needs while in custody.
Kejriwal's legal team has hinted that they plan to challenge the special court's order in the Delhi High Court. They are preparing a petition after studying the court's decision.
It is noteworthy that Kejriwal was granted interim bail on May 10 after 55 days. Following his release, he campaigned for the Lok Sabha elections. Arrested on March 21, he had spent the first 10 days under the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) custody, followed by judicial custody in Tihar Jail from April 1. Kejriwal surrendered on June 2 after the completion of his interim bail period. The petition was for the extension of this interim bail.
