Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently on interim bail following his arrest in the alleged liquor policy scam, began his battle for regular bail on Thursday afternoon in the Rouse Avenue Court. He has filed two pleas: one for normal bail and another to extend the Supreme Court-ordered interim bail by a week, citing a series of pending medical tests due to potential “health complications” from his diabetes.
During the brief hearing, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed the plea, requesting two days to respond and questioning the necessity of bail on health grounds. The ED noted that Kejriwal had actively participated in 67 rallies or roadshows and given 30 interviews since his interim release, suggesting he was in good health. They also criticized the timing of Kejriwal’s pleas, filed just over 48 hours before the bail period’s expiration.
“He is not in custody… he is, today, in Punjab campaigning. His health does not hinder him from campaigning… and he moves bail on the last date so we get very little time (to argue),” the ED said. “His conduct doesn’t entitle him for any orders today,” stated Additional Solicitor-General SV Raju, representing the central agency. The court granted the ED until 2 pm on Saturday to respond.
Kejriwal has been notably active since his release, spearheading his party’s efforts ahead of elections in Delhi and Punjab. Both states are under AAP control and send a combined 20 MPs to the Lok Sabha. The AAP’s alliance with the Congress remains a point of interest, particularly as they contest together in Delhi but remain rivals in Punjab, with frequent clashes between state leaders.
This regular bail plea marks Kejriwal’s first active application for bail. His interim release earlier this month was granted by the Supreme Court, which recognized him as an elected leader rather than a habitual offender. Kejriwal’s interim bail is set to expire on June 1, with instructions to report to Tihar Jail authorities within 24 hours thereafter. On Tuesday, he sought a seven-day extension to complete his medical tests, but the Supreme Court declined an urgent hearing, questioning the timing of the plea.
The original case verdict, concerning Kejriwal’s challenge of his arrest, is still pending, with the final hearing held on May 17.
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