A Delhi court has denied interim bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, stating that his extensive campaigning suggests he is not suffering from any serious or life-threatening ailments. This decision comes as Kejriwal faces charges in a money laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam.
In the order, Special Judge Kaveri Baweja highlighted that Kejriwal's active participation in election campaigns contradicts claims of severe health issues. "The extensive campaigning tours and related meetings/events undertaken by Arvind Kejriwal indicate that he does not appear to be suffering from any serious or 'life-threatening' ailment so as to entitle him to the benefit," Judge Baweja noted.
The court extended Kejriwal's judicial custody until June 19 and scheduled a hearing on June 7 for his application seeking default bail.
Health Concerns and Judicial Custody The court dismissed Kejriwal's request for interim bail to conduct medical tests, citing that these tests could be performed while he remains in custody. The judge emphasized that the request for bail based on anticipated health issues was not a valid reason for release.
Judge Baweja directed Tihar jail authorities to ensure Kejriwal's medical needs are met promptly. The court ordered the revival or reconstitution of the Medical Board at AIIMS, New Delhi, to assess Kejriwal's health and prescribe necessary diagnostic tests within three days. The jail authorities are required to facilitate these tests and provide the recommended treatment without delay.
Opposition from Enforcement Directorate During the hearing, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed Kejriwal's bail application, arguing that he campaigned extensively during the Lok Sabha elections but claimed illness when required to surrender. The ED highlighted that Kejriwal had campaigned in various states, including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, and Maharashtra, after being granted interim bail by the Supreme Court.
Kejriwal's counsel argued that the stress from campaigning had worsened his health and requested interim bail for necessary medical tests. However, the court found that these health concerns could be addressed while Kejriwal is in custody.
Background of the Case The case involves alleged corruption and money laundering in the formulation and execution of the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22. Kejriwal had been granted interim bail by the Supreme Court to campaign during the Lok Sabha elections but was required to surrender after the elections concluded.
As Kejriwal's interim bail expired on June 1, he surrendered at Tihar jail. The court has now sought a response from the ED by June 7 regarding Kejriwal's application for regular bail.
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