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Excise Policy Case: SC Reserves Order on Kejriwal’s Pleas for Bail, Against Arrest by CBI
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its order on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s separate pleas seeking bail and challenging his arrest by the CBI in the alleged excise policy scam. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan heard arguments put forward by Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, representing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Kejriwal.
“Thank you for the assistance. Judgment reserved,” the bench said after the lawyers concluded their arguments.
Kejriwal has filed two separate petitions challenging the denial of bail and against his arrest by the CBI in the corruption case filed by the central agency. The AAP chief was arrested by the CBI on June 26. The Delhi High Court had on August 5 upheld the arrest of the chief minister as legal and said there was no malice in the acts done by the CBI, which was able to demonstrate how the AAP supremo could influence witnesses who could muster the courage to depose only after his arrest.
Background of the Excise Policy Case
The excise policy was scrapped in 2022 after the Delhi lieutenant governor ordered a CBI probe into alleged irregularities and corruption involving its formulation and execution. According to the CBI and the ED, irregularities were committed while modifying the excise policy, and undue favours were extended to licence holders.
Key Events Leading to the Arrest
Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest stemmed from accusations of his role in the alleged manipulation and favoritism shown in the excise policy formulated by his government. The CBI has argued that there were substantial proofs demonstrating how the policy was tailored to benefit specific vendors and how this corruption reached the highest echelons of the Delhi administration.
Legal Battles and Contentions
Kejriwal’s legal team, led by senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, argued strongly for his bail, stating that there was no concrete evidence to justify the prolonged detention of the Delhi Chief Minister. They contended that the entire case is politically motivated, aiming to tarnish the reputation of the AAP government.
The Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, representing the CBI, countered these arguments by emphasizing the magnitude of the corruption unearthed. He highlighted the potential risk Kejriwal posed to witnesses, given his influential position.
Implications of the Supreme Court’s Decision
The Supreme Court’s decision in this high-profile case will be significant not only for the political landscape in Delhi but also for the broader discourse on governance and corruption in India. If the court rules in favor of Kejriwal, it could embolden his stance against what he terms ‘politically targeted investigations.’ Conversely, denying bail could shift public and political sentiment against the AAP government, impacting its administrative capabilities and future electoral prospects.
Possible Outcomes
The apex court could either grant bail to Kejriwal, thereby allowing him to continue his political duties while under scrutiny, or it could decide to keep him in detention, reflecting a stern approach to the charges of corruption. Each outcome has its own set of implications for the AAP government and the political ecosystem in Delhi.
Contextual Analysis
This case represents more than just a legal battle; it embodies a confrontation between different governance models and political ideologies. The central government’s stringent stance on corruption reflects its broader agenda to ensure accountability, while the AAP’s defence highlights their narrative of victimization and political persecution.
Public Perception and Media Coverage
Media coverage of the case has been extensive, mingling facts with public opinion. How the media narrates the developments and outcomes will significantly influence public perception. The detailed arguments, the legal nuances, and the eventual decision will all contribute to the ongoing discourse on corruption and political accountability in India.
Conclusion
As the Supreme Court deliberates on this pivotal case, the anticipation surrounding its decision underlines the fragile interplay between law, politics, and governance in India. The outcome will not only shape the political fate of Arvind Kejriwal but will also set a precedent for how similar cases might be handled in the future.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the judicial process unfolds and new dimensions emerge in this significant legal and political saga.
