The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has opposed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea for an extension of his interim bail, alleging that he provided false information about his health. Kejriwal, who was arrested by the agency on March 21 in connection with the Delhi excise policy case, claimed to have lost six kilograms during his incarceration, a statement contested by the ED.
During a hearing on Saturday, the Delhi court set the next date for the matter on June 5, indicating that Kejriwal must surrender to the Tihar Jail authorities by June 2, as per the Supreme Court’s directive.
Kejriwal had recently addressed the public, suggesting that his rapid weight loss might indicate a serious health issue. He had initially sought an extension of his interim bail from the Supreme Court, but the court advised him to approach the trial court for regular bail. Consequently, Kejriwal applied for regular bail in Delhi’s Rouse House court.
The Enforcement Directorate argued in court that Kejriwal’s claims of needing seven days for medical tests were misleading, as he had not disclosed the nature of these tests. The agency also asserted that Kejriwal had gained one kilogram instead of losing weight, and instead of undergoing medical tests, he was traveling across the country.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta raised concerns about Kejriwal’s statement regarding surrendering on Sunday, suggesting that it might be a strategic delay rather than a voluntary surrender. Mehta emphasized that the Supreme Court’s directive on surrender dates cannot be altered without the court’s intervention.
Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the ED, reiterated that Kejriwal must surrender first for any bail consideration to be valid, emphasizing that interim bail is not sustainable without lawful custody.
Mehta pointed out discrepancies in Kejriwal’s disclosures, highlighting the need for full transparency in legal proceedings.