Delhi: Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has once again refused to appear before the Enforcement Directorate, asserting his innocence in the face of corruption allegations. This development has intensified speculations of a potential arrest in connection with the excise policy-linked money laundering case, as AAP leaders express concerns over the unfolding situation.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the 55-year-old national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has skipped the third summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday, further deepening the ongoing legal saga. Kejriwal vehemently denies any involvement in corrupt practices and remains defiant in the face of allegations.
The ED, tasked with investigating the excise policy-linked money laundering case, has expressed dissatisfaction with Arvind Kejriwal’s non-cooperation. On Wednesday, the agency disclosed that it is currently scrutinizing the response submitted by the Delhi Chief Minister regarding his refusal to appear for questioning. In light of his continued non-compliance, the ED is contemplating issuing a fourth summons to compel Kejriwal to join the investigation.
The backdrop of this standoff includes allegations by AAP leaders that the Enforcement Directorate is contemplating the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal. The excise policy case has become a focal point of contention, with the ED probing potential financial irregularities and money laundering activities linked to the policy.
“In a strongly worded statement, Arvind Kejriwal criticized the Enforcement Directorate’s approach, labeling it as a “non-disclosure and non-response approach.” He contends that such a methodology cannot withstand scrutiny in the realms of law, equity, or justice. The Delhi Chief Minister accuses the ED of assuming the roles of judge, jury, and executioner, characterizing their persistence as obstinacy”.
The ongoing legal tussle raises questions about the political implications for Kejriwal and the AAP. The Chief Minister’s steadfast denial of any wrongdoing aligns with the party’s image of anti-corruption crusaders. However, the repeated refusals to cooperate with the Enforcement Directorate may further fuel speculations and public discourse surrounding the case.
