The Delhi High Court has taken cognizance of a plea filed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the Excise Policy case. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna issued a notice to the CBI, directing them to respond within seven days and scheduled a detailed hearing for July 17, 2024.
Senior Advocate Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, informed the court of their intention to file a bail plea soon. The plea argues that Kejriwal's arrest violated Section 41 and 60A of the CrPC, which mandate procedures for arrests in cases with a maximum punishment of up to seven years.
Kejriwal's plea contends that despite ongoing investigations for two years, his arrest lacked proper justification and disregarded legal procedures. It further challenges the basis of his arrest, alleging that the CBI did not present new evidence post-April 23, 2024, when they were authorized to investigate under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Earlier, on June 29, 2024, the Rouse Avenue Court of Delhi had remanded Kejriwal to judicial custody in connection with the Excise Policy case. The CBI, during custodial interrogation, accused Kejriwal of evading questions related to alleged irregularities in the new Excise Policy of Delhi 2021-22, particularly concerning profit margins and expedited approvals.
In response to the allegations, Kejriwal maintained his innocence and criticized the timing and motives behind his arrest, suggesting it was aimed at tarnishing his image. The court proceedings have attracted significant attention, with Kejriwal's legal team questioning the necessity of custodial remand and emphasizing procedural lapses in the investigation.
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