Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal must return to Tihar Jail tomorrow (June 2) after a local court postponed the decision on his interim bail request to June 5. He was arrested in connection with an alleged money laundering case tied to the now-canceled liquor policy.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has requested a one-week interim bail for Kejriwal on medical grounds. His lawyer informed the court that Kejriwal is unwell and requires medical treatment.
ED Opposes Arvind Kejriwal’s Interim Bail Request
On Saturday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s request for temporary bail in a money laundering case connected to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam. The ED argued in front of Special Judge Kaveri Baweja that Kejriwal had hidden important details and made false claims, especially about his health.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the ED, told the court that Kejriwal had also made untrue statements during a press conference on Friday, where he said he would surrender on June 2. The ED believes these statements were meant to mislead the public and the court.
Kejriwal, who is the leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), asked the court for a week of interim bail, citing health issues. His lawyer explained that Kejriwal is unwell and needs medical treatment. The Supreme Court had previously granted him interim bail, but this bail period will end on June 1.
The court is now considering whether to grant Kejriwal’s request for interim bail based on his health condition and the arguments presented by both sides.
Also Read: Arvind Kejriwal Gets Interim Bail
ED’s Argument Against Arvind Kejriwal’s Bail Plea
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea, stating that this court cannot alter the Supreme Court’s decision. The Supreme Court had granted Kejriwal interim bail, and he is now seeking an extension of that order.
The ED, quoting Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju via Live Law, clarified that they are not against granting interim bail in principle. However, they argued that without adhering to Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), this court cannot grant interim bail. For this, Kejriwal must approach a different court.
The Supreme Court initially allowed him interim bail to apply for regular bail but did not give him the liberty to seek an extension of this interim relief.
Kejriwal claimed he needed seven days for medical tests, but the nature of these tests was not fully disclosed. The ED noted that Kejriwal has been campaigning in various states and has not undergone the medical tests he mentioned. At the time of his surrender, he cited medical grounds for seeking interim bail.
The ED argued that the tests Kejriwal mentioned could be completed within an hour and do not require several days. His condition of diabetes was pre-existing, not a sudden issue. Furthermore, his weight only increased slightly from 64 kg to 65 kg, indicating no significant weight loss.
The ED accused Kejriwal of trying to mislead the court by delaying the tests. They assured that any necessary medical tests could be conducted while he is in jail, with the option to take him to AIIMS or another hospital if required.
Arvind Kejriwal’s Lawyer’s Arguments for Medical Bail
Arvind Kejriwal’s lawyer clarified that the request wasn’t for an extension of a Supreme Court order but for medical bail. Initially, the interim bail was granted to allow Kejriwal to campaign for the AAP, a national party. Now, the lawyer is requesting another week of interim bail. This request follows a previous Supreme Court judgment.
Kejriwal highlighted that he had been out of jail for 20 days to campaign, which was necessary to avoid criticism for not participating in the campaign. He expressed concern about returning to jail without completing his medical tests, which could pose health risks.
The court inquired about the specific tests needed and their duration. The lawyer explained that the halter test, which involves constant monitoring for about 72 hours, is essential. Additionally, Kejriwal needs to undergo a PET scan and other tests to ensure his treatment aligns with his medical condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1. Why is Arvind Kejriwal returning to Tihar Jail?
Ans. Kejriwal must return to Tihar Jail as the court postponed the decision on his interim bail request to June 5.
Q.2. What is the reason for Kejriwal’s bail request?
Ans. Kejriwal’s lawyer requested interim bail on medical grounds, stating he needs time for essential medical tests.
Q.3. Why is the Enforcement Directorate opposing Kejriwal’s bail?
Ans. The ED argues that Kejriwal made false claims about his health and hid important details, aiming to mislead the court and public.
Q.4. What medical tests does Kejriwal need?
Ans. Kejriwal’s lawyer mentioned a halter test requiring 72 hours of monitoring, a PET scan, and additional tests.
Q.5. What was the Supreme Court’s stance on Kejriwal’s interim bail?
Ans. The Supreme Court initially granted interim bail for campaigning but did not allow an extension without proper judicial procedure.
