New Delhi: The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the excise policy scam case on August 14. This hearing comes in the wake of the Delhi High Court’s decision, which upheld the legality of Kejriwal’s arrest.
The case will be presided over by a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan. The Supreme Court agreed to an urgent listing of the plea after senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, sought immediate attention to the matter. Alongside the plea against the arrest, the Court will also consider Kejriwal’s separate application for bail.
On August 5, the Delhi High Court ruled that Kejriwal’s arrest was lawful. The Court rejected claims of bias in the CBI’s actions, emphasizing that Kejriwal’s influence over witnesses was a significant factor leading to his arrest. This decision was made to ensure key testimonies were obtained. The High Court suggested that Kejriwal seek regular bail through the trial court.
The controversy centers around the excise policy, which was cancelled in 2022 following an investigation initiated by the Delhi lieutenant governor. The CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have alleged irregularities and undue benefits granted during the policy’s amendment and implementation.
The upcoming Supreme Court hearing on August 14 is pivotal in determining the future course of the legal proceedings. It will address Kejriwal’s challenge against his arrest and his request for bail, which will significantly impact the ongoing legal and political landscape surrounding the excise policy case.
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