A Delhi court recently dismissed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea for interim bail on medical grounds in a money laundering case related to an alleged excise policy scam, stating that his extensive campaigning activities did not indicate any serious or life-threatening ailment. The court, presided over by Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, extended Kejriwal’s judicial custody until June 19 and scheduled a hearing on June 7 regarding his application for default bail.
The judge emphasized that Kejriwal’s participation in campaigning tours and events suggested that he did not suffer from a severe health condition warranting bail. The court also mentioned that Kejriwal’s request for bail to conduct medical tests related to diabetic ketoacidosis and weight loss lacked sufficient grounds for relief.
Despite denying interim bail, the judge directed the Tihar jail authorities to ensure Kejriwal’s medical needs were addressed during his custody. The court ordered the revival or reconstitution of a Medical Board from AIIMS, as previously directed, to assess Kejriwal’s health condition and conduct necessary diagnostic tests within three days.
During the hearing, the Enforcement Directorate opposed Kejriwal’s plea, highlighting his active campaigning during the Lok Sabha elections and questioning the sudden claim of illness when faced with surrendering.
Kejriwal surrendered at Tihar jail on Sunday as his interim bail granted by the Supreme Court expired. The case revolves around alleged corruption and money laundering in the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22.
The court’s decision underscores the legal complexities surrounding Kejriwal’s bail plea amid ongoing investigations and legal proceedings in the money laundering case. The upcoming hearing on June 7 will further determine the course of action regarding Kejriwal’s bail status.
