New Delhi- In the latest chapter of the Arvind Kejriwal-ED saga, BJP's Bansuri Swaraj alleges that the Delhi CM aims to turn his potential arrest into a theatrical spectacles.
Kejriwal Snubs ED Summons for the Third Time
Despite the Enforcement Directorate's persistent summons, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal refused to appear for questioning on January 3, marking the third instance in the ongoing money laundering case related to alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22.
Kejriwal Denounces "False Summons" and Questions ED's Intentions
Kejriwal contends that the Enforcement Directorate dispatched "false summons" to him, linking them to the purported liquor policy scam. The Chief Minister deems the ED's notice illegal while expressing his willingness to cooperate, raising concerns about the agency's underlying intentions.
ED's Persistent Pursuit in Excise Policy-Linked Case
The ED had initially summoned Kejriwal for questioning on January 3, making it the third such summons. The Chief Minister had previously refused to comply on November 2 and December 21. The case revolves around alleged money laundering connected to irregularities in the Delhi excise policy for the fiscal year 2021-22.
Historical Context: Arrests in the Excise Policy Controversy
This development follows the arrest of then Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in February 2023 by the CBI, implicating him in alleged irregularities tied to the formulation and execution of Delhi's now-discarded excise policy. The policy faced criticism and accusations of foul play, leading to its eventual withdrawal. AAP Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Singh also faced arrest in October 2023 in connection to the same case.
ED Seeks Court Permission to Probe AAP's Finances
With at least 14 individuals already arrested by the agency, the Enforcement Directorate is now seeking court approval to investigate the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as a potential beneficiary of the "proceeds of crime" linked to the excise policy scandal. The unfolding events continue to add layers to the ongoing controversy surrounding Delhi's political landscape.
