The Delhi High Court justly validated the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal. Challenging the ED's arrest and remand in connection with the liquor scandal, the court ruled Kejriwal's detention legal, stating sufficient evidence had been provided by the ED. This leading to Kejriwal's arrest. The High Court also legitimized the ED's remand and stated that it is not in the accused's power to dictate the investigation process.
Elaborating on its verdict, the Delhi High Court discussed the money trail linked to the Goa elections. The statements of the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) Goa candidate, who acknowledged receipt of funds, were particularly noted by the High Court, reinforcing the layer of financial transactions under scrutiny.
Money Trail Found in Goa Election: High Court
The court emphasized the mountains of evidence available to the ED, including testimonies from money changers, approvers, and AAP members, who confessed to financing the expenditures for the Goa elections. This completes the financial trail for the Goa elections. The legality of Kejriwal's arrest is not a violation of the law, nor can the Delhi CM's remand be deemed illegal.
After the decision, ASG SV Raju, representing the investigation agency, said, "Today, after examining all the evidence, the judge delivered the verdict, also noting the money trail. The court conducted justice today, affirming the lawful arrest of Kejriwal."
No Special Privileges for Chief Ministers: High Court
The High Court stated that the witness statements were recorded in the court. Casting doubts on the approver's statements or their pardons would be tantamount to questioning the judicial process. Investigations cannot be subject to individual conveniences. During probes, authorities can approach anyone’s residence. Kejriwal was arrested concerning a money laundering case. No special privileges are granted to anyone, including the Chief Minister, when it comes to investigations and interrogations.
Kejriwal's Remaining Options
The question arises as to what options Kejriwal has left after the High Court affirmed the legality of his arrest. Kejriwal now has the option to challenge the Delhi High Court's ruling in the Supreme Court. AAP has already declared its intent to approach the Supreme Court. Delhi minister Saurabh Bhardwaj, post-verdict, addressed the press saying that they will take the case to the apex court, calling the excise policy issue not one of money laundering but the biggest political conspiracy. With an unprecedented margin and mandate, Arvind Kejriwal stands at the forefront in winning states in India.
The Whole Matter Is a Major Political Conspiracy: AAP
They claimed that the entire case against the AAP-led governments in Delhi and Punjab is an attempt to crush them, and so far, no evidence has been found. The case is not one of money laundering but a significant political conspiracy. AAP is hopeful that the Supreme Court will grant relief to Kejriwal. Chandan Reddy changed his statement under duress. He had filed a writ in the Delhi HC claiming that he had been beaten. Arun Pillai stated that he was threatened on behalf of his family. AAP reiterated its claims concerning Magunta Reddy and Raghav Reddy. It was only after giving statements against Kejriwal that they were released.
