The Supreme Court of India recently granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal in a high-profile corruption case involving allegations of irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi liquor policy. The apex court’s decision came after a prolonged legal battle surrounding CM Kejriwal’s alleged involvement in a scheme that resulted in financial losses to the state government.
Details of the Case
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched probes into Delhi’s Excise Policy, introduced by the Kejriwal government, which aimed to reform liquor sales in Delhi. The government later withdrew the policy amid allegations that it had provided undue benefits to private liquor vendors in exchange for financial kickbacks.
Bail Granted by the Supreme Court
On Monday, Kejriwal’s legal team submitted a bail application, and the Supreme Court of India reviewed it, arguing that political motivations drove the charges against him. The bench, led by the Chief Justice of India, observed that the prosecution did not provide sufficient evidence for continued detention. Consequently, the court granted bail to the Delhi CM, allowing him to be released while the investigation into the case continues.
Implications of the Decision
The granting of bail has significant political implications, particularly in Delhi, where Kejriwal continues to be a prominent political figure. His Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has labeled the case as a “vendetta” by opposition parties, aiming to discredit their government’s reforms. The decision to release Kejriwal on bail could strengthen his party’s standing and bolster his defense before further legal proceedings.
Kejriwal’s Response
After the court granted him bail, Kejriwal expressed relief and reiterated his innocence in front of the media. He maintained that he introduced the excise policy reforms in good faith, aiming to increase transparency in the liquor trade. He also thanked the court for reviewing the case impartially and reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Delhi.
While they have secured Kejriwal’s immediate release, the case remains open, and both the CBI and ED are expected to continue their investigations. Further hearings and court proceedings will determine the outcome of the corruption allegations.
Political Ramifications
This ruling could further polarize the political landscape, with the ruling party at the Center and the opposition in Delhi clashing over corruption allegations. While AAP supporters view the bail as a victory, opposition leaders have expressed concerns over the court’s decision, maintaining that Kejriwal’s role in the liquor policy scandal deserves further scrutiny.
The Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail has offered the Delhi CM a reprieve in the ongoing corruption case. As the case unfolds, it will remain in the spotlight, with broader implications for Delhi politics and Kejriwal’s leadership in the state.
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