Excise policy case: Arvind Kejriwal moves fresh plea in Delhi HC

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal filed a fresh plea in the Delhi High Court on Thursday, requesting protection from any coercive measures against him. The division bench, headed by Justice Suresh Kumar Kait, is scheduled to address the matter this morning. The Enforcement Directorate has issued nine summons to him thus far in connection with the liquor policy ‘scam’ case.

Kejriwal informed the Delhi High Court on Wednesday that he would not cooperate with the Enforcement Directorate, citing a perceived intention to arrest him, especially with elections looming. This response followed the court’s inquiry into why he hadn’t appeared before the investigating agency regarding questioning in a money-laundering case linked to the excise policy. The court sought the agency’s stance on Kejriwal’s plea contesting the issued summonses.

In light of the latest summons instructing him to appear on Thursday, March 21, Kejriwal approached the court, reiterating his refusal to comply with the agency’s directives, deeming them unlawful. The court noted that immediate arrest is not standard protocol, as the investigating agency typically outlines reasons for such action if warranted. However, citing the arrests of AAP leaders Sanjay Singh and Manish Sisodia in a similar context, Kejriwal’s senior lawyer suggested a shift in operational methods.

“I am willing to appear and answer queries, but I require protection. I am not evading or fleeing. I will present myself, but safeguards are necessary, no coercive measures,” Singhvi asserted. “I am not a common criminal. Where could I possibly flee? Does anyone have deeper roots in society than me?” he questioned the bench.

Singhvi further argued that the ED summoned Kejriwal without clarifying whether he’s considered an accused, suspect, or witness. The court advised that Kejriwal would ascertain his legal status upon complying with the summonses and questioned why he hadn’t pursued appropriate legal recourse if anticipating arrest.

The court reminded Kejriwal of his citizenship and emphasized that the summons was directed specifically to him.