Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed apprehensions regarding the Supreme Court’s decision to grant interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the excise policy case, suggesting that many perceive it as special treatment. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Shah stated that the judgment was not routine and raised concerns about the perception of preferential treatment.
Addressing Kejriwal’s involvement in political campaigns for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Shah took a swipe at the Delhi Chief Minister, referencing an ongoing issue involving an alleged assault by one of Kejriwal’s aides. He suggested waiting until the resolution of this matter before assessing Kejriwal’s political activities.
Responding to Kejriwal’s claims about surveillance in Tihar jail, Shah dismissed them, highlighting that the jail administration falls under the purview of the Delhi government, not the Home Ministry.
Kejriwal’s interim bail, granted by the Supreme Court on May 10 in a money laundering case linked to Delhi’s excise policy, allows him to participate in election campaigning until June 1. However, he must surrender to jail authorities on June 2 and is prohibited from serving as Chief Minister during this period.
Regarding Kejriwal’s recent announcement of ten guarantees to the people, Shah downplayed their significance, questioning the feasibility of such promises given the AAP’s limited electoral presence. He emphasized Prime Minister Modi’s continued leadership beyond 2029, refuting Kejriwal’s allegations of impending leadership changes within the BJP post-elections.
As the Lok Sabha polls progress, with voting in Delhi scheduled for May 25, the AAP and the Congress are contesting in alliance, with the AAP competing in four seats and the Congress in three.