Delhi Police have filed an FIR after firecrackers were burst outside Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s home in the Civil Lines area of North Delhi. The incident took place as people were celebrating his release from jail, officials reported on Saturday.
On Monday, the Delhi government announced a complete ban on the production, sale, and use of firecrackers in the city. This step has been taken to reduce air pollution during the upcoming winter months, when pollution levels are known to rise.
A case has been registered at the Civil Lines Police Station under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. This section deals with disobedience to orders issued by a public servant. The case is against unidentified individuals who violated these orders by setting off firecrackers outside the Chief Minister’s official residence. The police are investigating the matter further.
FIR After Firecrackers Burst Outside CM Kejriwal’s Residence
On Saturday, the Delhi Police registered an FIR after firecrackers were set off outside the home of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the Civil Lines area of North Delhi. This incident happened after Kejriwal was released from Tihar Jail, according to officials.
Earlier, the Supreme Court had granted Kejriwal bail in a corruption case related to the Delhi excise policy. He had been in jail for over five months because of this case. After his release, people gathered near his residence and burst firecrackers to celebrate, which led to the police taking action and filing the FIR.
Also Read: Supreme Court Grants Bail to Arvind Kejriwal with 5 Key Conditions
Why Was an FIR Filed for Bursting Firecrackers?
The Delhi government had previously enforced a ban on the production, sale, and use of firecrackers to reduce air pollution, especially during the winter season.
According to officials, a case was registered under Section 223 (disobedience to orders) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the Civil Lines Police Station against unidentified individuals for breaking the ban.
The incident occurred outside the Chief Minister’s residence on Friday evening, just after his release from Tihar Jail, where firecrackers were set off in violation of the ban.
Can Arvind Kejriwal Still Fulfill His Duties as CM After Bail?
The Supreme Court has granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, but with certain restrictions in place.
As part of his bail conditions, Kejriwal must submit a surety bond of ₹10 lakh. He is also restricted from making any public statements regarding the ongoing Delhi excise policy case.
In addition, Kejriwal is prohibited from entering the Chief Minister’s office or the Delhi Secretariat. He can only sign official documents if absolutely necessary and with the approval of the Lieutenant Governor. He must also attend trial sessions unless exempted by the court.
If Kejriwal wishes to modify these conditions, he must file an application. His lawyer, Rishikesh Kumar, mentioned that the Supreme Court may adjust these restrictions related to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) case.
Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21, 2024, during a money laundering probe linked to alleged irregularities in the now-void Delhi excise policy for 2021-22. He was later arrested by the CBI on June 26, 2024, while still in ED custody.
FAQs
Q.1. Why was an FIR filed after firecrackers were burst outside Arvind Kejriwal’s residence?
Ans. The FIR was filed because the firecrackers violated the Delhi government’s ban on the production, sale, and use of firecrackers to reduce air pollution.
Q.2. What is Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita?
Ans. Section 223 deals with disobedience to orders issued by a public servant. In this case, it applies to the violation of the firecracker ban.
Q.3. Why was Arvind Kejriwal arrested in 2024?
Ans. Kejriwal was arrested as part of a money laundering investigation linked to alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy for 2021-22.
Q.4. Can Arvind Kejriwal continue his duties as Chief Minister after being granted bail?
Ans. Yes, but with restrictions. He cannot enter his office, sign documents without approval, or make statements regarding the excise policy case.
Q.5. What restrictions has the Supreme Court imposed on Kejriwal after granting bail?
Ans. Kejriwal must submit a ₹10 lakh surety bond, avoid public comments on the excise case, and cannot enter the CM’s office or Secretariat without court or LG approval.
