Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s Judicial Custody Extended as Supreme Court Reviews Bail Plea

A Delhi court has decided to extend the judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal until May 20.

This decision came after a hearing in the Supreme Court concerning Kejriwal’s application for bail.During the court proceedings, the Supreme Court recognized Kejriwal’s position as an elected Chief Minister, especially with elections on the horizon.

The court described the situation as exceptional and highlighted that Kejriwal is not a repeat offender.

The bench, consisting of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta, discussed Kejriwal’s petition challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21 in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case.

Senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, addressed the court’s concerns about the CM’s potential actions if granted interim bail.

Singhvi assured that Kejriwal would not interfere in the excise case and would fulfill his duties as a sitting Chief Minister.

However, the bench clarified that if Kejriwal were granted bail, he should refrain from carrying out any official duties to avoid potential complications.

The court also acknowledged the importance of Kejriwal’s involvement in the Lok Sabha election campaign.In response, the Enforcement Directorate opposed the court’s suggestion, raising concerns about setting a precedent. They questioned whether all MPs and MLAs facing prosecution should be granted bail.

Singhvi has been tasked with addressing these concerns raised by the Enforcement Directorate.