Supreme Court to Hear Arvind Kejriwal’s Pleas on September 6: A Key Legal Battle Unfolds
New Delhi, August 23, 2024: The Supreme Court of India has scheduled a crucial hearing on September 6, 2024, concerning Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s legal challenges related to his arrest in the alleged Delhi excise policy scam. The bench, composed of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, is set to deliberate on two pivotal petitions filed by Kejriwal.
Background of the Case
The case stems from alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy for the 2021-22 fiscal year. The controversy has embroiled several high-profile figures within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), leading to multiple arrests, including that of former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and CBI have been probing the matter under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and the Prevention of Corruption Act, respectively.
Proceedings to Date
In the most recent proceedings on August 23, 2024, the Supreme Court deferred the hearing of Kejriwal’s bail plea and his challenge against the CBI’s arrest until September 5. The bench allowed the CBI additional time to file a counter-affidavit in response to Kejriwal’s petitions. Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, pointed out that while the CBI had filed a counter-affidavit in one of the pleas, it was served late, at 8 PM on August 22. The CBI requested more time for the second plea, which the court granted.
The court also directed Kejriwal’s legal team to submit a rejoinder to the CBI’s affidavit within two days after its filing.
Political and Legal Implications
The outcome of this case holds significant political weight as Delhi heads towards assembly elections in early 2025. The Delhi excise policy case has already led to considerable turmoil within the AAP, with the arrests of senior leaders raising questions about the future leadership of the party. Moreover, the Supreme Court’s decisions on these pleas could set important legal precedents concerning the application of the law in cases involving high-ranking political figures.
The case continues to draw intense public and media scrutiny, reflecting its potential impact on both the legal and political landscape of the country.
What’s Next?
With the hearing now set for September 6, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court as it addresses these complex legal questions. The decisions made could have far-reaching consequences not only for Arvind Kejriwal and the AAP but also for how corruption cases are handled in the future.
Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops.
