New Delhi: In an unusual turn of events during his court appearance, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal directly addressed the Rouse Avenue Court to refute claims that he attempted to shift blame for the alleged liquor policy scam onto his former deputy, Manish Sisodia.
Kejriwal, who was arrested by the CBI this morning following his earlier arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in March, stated, "A false narrative is being spread by CBI sources in the media - that I put the blame of the liquor policy scam on Sisodiaji. I did not make any such statement blaming him or any other person."
He further asserted, "I had said Sisodiaji is innocent... Aam Aadmi Party is innocent... and I am innocent. But CBI's plan is to malign us in the media. Please record... CBI sources spread fake news."
The Delhi Chief Minister's comments came after the CBI claimed in court that he had attempted to pin the blame for recommending liquor store privatization on his party colleague. Kejriwal vehemently denied this, saying, "CBI is defaming me... defaming AAP. I am innocent and Sisodia ji is also innocent."
Notably, the court acknowledged that the available evidence, including that presented by the prosecution, did not suggest such statements were made.
Kejriwal also revealed details of his previous interaction with the CBI during a nine-hour interrogation last August. He told the court, "I told them (the CBI) there were three points. First - increase revenue. Second - reduce crowds to handle law and order. Third - open liquor shops in right proportion."
The CBI, responding to arguments made by Kejriwal's lawyers, stated that it could have acted against the Delhi Chief Minister at any time, "even during elections," but chose to act only with the court's permission.
This latest development comes amidst a series of legal challenges for Kejriwal. The Rouse Avenue Court allowed the CBI to arrest him while in session, just hours before his Supreme Court plea challenging the High Court's stay on bail was to be heard. The CBI has sought five-day custody of Kejriwal, with a decision on this request expected shortly.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case continues to draw significant attention, highlighting the ongoing political and legal tensions surrounding the Delhi government and its leadership.
