The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a plea seeking the extension of Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody during his surrender on June 2, amidst the Delhi liquor scam case. Kejriwal's custody was set to expire today, but due to his status on interim bail, the ED has approached the court with this request. The agency expressed its concern about allegations that it did not file for custody in a timely manner.
The court inquired why ED has requested Kejriwal's judicial custody. Currently, he is on interim bail. The ED replied that this would be applicable at the time of his surrender.
The Rouse Avenue Court sought clarification on where Kejriwal is supposed to surrender – in court or in jail, especially given that June 2 falls on a Sunday. The ED responded that although the surrender might occur in jail, his judicial custody should be decided starting that day. The court may choose to keep this plea pending.
The court stated it will keep the plea pending, with the duty magistrate able to make a decision. It was emphasized that a judge available on duty on June 2 could determine the outcome, following a supreme court instruction assumed by the ED that Kejriwal would surrender.
Interim Bail Until June 1
Recently, the Supreme Court granted Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal interim bail in the money laundering case related to the Delhi liquor scam. Kejriwal's interim bail is valid until June 1. The court remarked during this period that Kejriwal is being given adequate time before elections and that there are no restrictions on his campaign activities. However, he must surrender on June 2.
Kejriwal Jailed Since March 21
ED arrested Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor scam on March 21. Prior to his arrest, the ED had issued nine summonses for questioning in the case, none of which Kejriwal attended. The central investigative agency accuses him of being the main conspirator of the scam and directly involved in soliciting bribes from liquor businesses.
ED Arrested 18 Accused So Far
In this case, the ED has arrested a total of 18 individuals so far. A prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, Sanjay Singh, was recently granted bail. ED sources state that the agency might charge Kejriwal for not cooperating with the investigation, indirectly being liable for the crimes committed by AAP, being the national coordinator of the party, and being an active participant in AAP's daily affairs.