Embroidered in a liquor scandal, Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had issued another directive from ED custody on Tuesday. He urged the Health Minister to ensure the continued provision of free medicines at hospitals and Mohalla Clinics in the capital. Strikingly, this very order has become the latest flashpoint for a BJP offensive.
Spearheaded by BJP senior leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa, a complaint has been lodged with Delhi's Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Sirsa has labeled Kejriwal's directive as illegal and unconstitutional, demanding a thorough investigation and action.
In a bold statement, Sirsa articulated, 'Today, I have filed a grievance against AAP Minister Aatishi and her accomplices before the Lieutenant Governor and the ED. They flaunted an illegal order in the name of the Chief Minister, claiming it was sanctioned by him, despite Kejriwal's custody in prison rendering such a directive completely unlawful and unconstitutional—a gross misuse of the Chief Minister's Office amounting to a criminal conspiracy against the people of Delhi.'
Sirsa's clarion call for immediate inquiry and legal action extends to all involved in the illegitimate operation of the Chief Minister's Office.
What's the controversy?
AAP Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj, during a press briefing on Tuesday, disclosed that Chief Minister Kejriwal issued a second directive from ED's custody, focusing on the uninterrupted supply of free medication at Delhi's hospitals and mohalla clinics.
Bhardwaj was in awe, 'It's uncertain what Kejriwal is made of, as even from ED's grip, he's preoccupied with Delhiites' health. Constantly directing hospital inspections, he's determined to keep medicine and diagnostics free. His directive is as sacrosanct to me as a decree from the divine.'
Issued first directive on March 23
Kejriwal, apprehended by the ED on March 21st in the Delhi liquor scandal, had issued his maiden directive on March 23rd while in custody. He instructed Water Minister Aatishi to address the water and sewage issues across various Delhi sectors.
Sharing Kejriwal's concerns, Aatishi revealed the Chief Minister's distress over region-specific water and sewer troubles and his mandate for prompt resolution. Kejriwal's principle: The public should not suffer, even with his incarceration.
Arrested amid the liquor scam
Chief Minister Kejriwal was taken into custody by the ED following a raid at his official residence in the Civil Lines area on March 21. Sent to the ED's detention till March 28th by the Rouse Avenue Court for 'extensive and ongoing interrogation' related to irregularities in the Delhi excise policy.
