Delhi HC asks CBI to respond to Kejriwal’s bail plea.
Advocate DP Singh, representing the CBI, raised an objection to Arvind Kejriwal directly approaching the Delhi High Court without first filing his bail plea before the trial court. Singh argued that proper legal procedure necessitates initial submission of the bail application to the trial court. He emphasized that bypassing this step undermines judicial processes and sets a concerning precedent. The Delhi High Court has taken note of this objection while considering Kejriwal’s bail plea in connection with the excise ‘scam’ case, highlighting the importance of following established legal protocols.
Justice Neena Bansal Krishna issued a notice to the CBI on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea and listed it for further hearing on July 17.
Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, argued that the AAP leader is not a flight risk and not a terrorist. Singhvi emphasized that the CBI arrested him after he was granted bail in the ED’s money laundering case. Advocate DP Singh, appearing for the CBI, raised an objection over Kejriwal directly approaching the HC without first filing the bail plea before the trial court.
The hearing on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea brought to light several critical aspects of the case:
- Legal Procedure: Advocate DP Singh’s objection highlighted the importance of following proper legal procedure. By approaching the HC directly, Kejriwal bypassed the trial court, which Singh argued undermines judicial processes and sets a concerning precedent.
- Kejriwal’s Defense: Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi argued that Kejriwal is not a flight risk or a terrorist. This point was emphasized to argue against the necessity of his continued detention.
- Connection with Money Laundering Case: Kejriwal’s arrest by the CBI came shortly after he was granted bail in a money laundering case by the ED. This connection between the two cases is significant in understanding the broader context of the allegations against him.
- Judicial Custody: Kejriwal has been in judicial custody since his arrest by the ED. His continued detention and the high-profile nature of the case have kept it in the public eye.
- Scrapping of Excise Policy: The excise policy, which is at the center of the corruption case, was scrapped in 2022. The policy’s termination followed a probe ordered by the Delhi lieutenant governor into alleged irregularities.
- Alleged Irregularities: Both the CBI and the ED have pointed to irregularities committed while modifying the excise policy. These irregularities allegedly involved undue favors extended to license holders.
- Public and Political Implications: As the national convener of the AAP and Chief Minister of Delhi, Kejriwal’s arrest and the subsequent legal battles have significant public and political implications. The case is closely watched by both supporters and critics.
- Upcoming Hearing: The next hearing on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea is scheduled for July 17. This hearing will be crucial in determining the immediate future of the case.
- Trial Court’s Role: The objection raised by Advocate DP Singh underscores the role of the trial court in such cases. The trial court’s initial decision to grant bail in the money laundering case was an important step, although it was later stayed by the high court.
- CBI’s Response: The CBI’s response to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea will be a key factor in the upcoming hearing. Their arguments and evidence will be scrutinized by the court.
- Political Repercussions: The case has political repercussions not only for Kejriwal but also for the AAP. The party’s leadership and future strategies may be influenced by the outcome of this case.
- Public Sentiment: Public sentiment around the case varies, with some viewing it as a politically motivated action against Kejriwal, while others see it as a necessary legal process to address alleged corruption.
- Media Coverage: The case has received extensive media coverage, keeping it in the public domain and adding pressure on the legal and political stakeholders involved.
- Legal Strategies: The legal strategies employed by both Kejriwal’s defense team and the CBI will be crucial in the upcoming hearings. Each side will aim to present compelling arguments to support their case.
- Impact on Governance: As the sitting Chief Minister, Kejriwal’s legal troubles have an impact on governance in Delhi. His detention and the ongoing legal battles may affect the administration’s functioning and public perception.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea is not just a legal document but a pivotal point in an ongoing saga that involves legal, political, and public dimensions. The outcome of the upcoming hearing will be closely watched and will have lasting implications for all parties involved. The case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in legal and political battles, where every procedural step and argument can significantly influence the final outcome. The Delhi High Court’s decision on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea will be a crucial moment in this ongoing legal drama.