The Delhi High Court declined a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the ousting of Arvind Kejriwal, who has been detained by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a liquor policy case, from his position as Chief Minister of Delhi. The court stated that the petitioner failed to demonstrate any legal barrier prohibiting the arrested CM from retaining his office. They emphasized that there’s no room for judicial intervention as the executive is handling the matter, and any constitutional issues would be addressed by the President or Governor.
The petitioner argued that a Chief Minister facing financial allegations shouldn’t continue in office, but the court dismissed this assertion. The petitioner contended that a jailed CM would be unable to carry out official duties, leading to a breach of secrecy and undermining governance, but the court didn’t find merit in these claims.
Despite statements from AAP Ministers indicating Kejriwal’s intention to remain in office, the petitioner urged the court to remove him through a writ of Quo Warranto, questioning his authority to hold the position. Additionally, the petitioner filed another PIL to prevent Kejriwal from issuing directives while in ED custody, which is yet to be listed.