In a dramatic turn of events, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is on the verge of arrest following a raid at his residence, according to leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). This development comes just hours after Kejriwal refused to cooperate with authorities in the Delhi liquor policy case. The AAP alleges that the Delhi police have gone a step further by blocking the roads leading to Kejriwal’s residence, intensifying the political turmoil.
Refusal to Appear Before Enforcement Directorate Raises Tension
This marks the third notice served to Mr. Kejriwal, also the AAP’s national convenor, after he declined to appear before the Enforcement Directorate on two previous summons for November 2 and December 21. The situation escalated on Wednesday as AAP leaders hinted at an impending raid on Kejriwal’s house, potentially leading to his arrest.
Speculations and Social Media Buzz
Amidst the unfolding crisis, senior party leaders took to social media to share their concerns. Atishi, a prominent figure and Delhi minister, posted on Twitter, “News coming in that ED is going to raid @ArvindKejriwal’s residence tmrw morning. Arrest likely.” Similar messages circulated on the handles of other influential party leaders, including Saurabh Bhardwaj, Jasmine Shah, and Sandeep Pathak.
Kejriwal’s Response and Political Ramifications
Mr. Kejriwal, on his part, maintains that the summons are “motivated.” He expresses uncertainty about whether he is being called as a witness or a suspect in the case. The AAP alleges a conspiracy to hinder Kejriwal’s involvement in the upcoming national election later this year.
AAP’s Preparedness for the Future
With key leaders such as Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh, and Satyendra Jain already behind bars, the AAP has long been anticipating such a scenario. Discussions within the party revolve around the possible courses of action, with a surprising stance urging Kejriwal to continue as Chief Minister, even if from jail.
The CBI’s Allegations and Enforcement Directorate’s Investigation
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) contends that liquor companies played a role in formulating the excise policy, aiming for a substantial profit increase. The involvement of a liquor lobby referred to as the “South Group” is suspected of paying kickbacks, a portion of which allegedly reached public servants. The Enforcement Directorate is actively investigating the alleged money laundering associated with these kickbacks.
The situation remains fluid, with political and legal implications that could reshape the landscape of Delhi politics. As the events continue to unfold, the AAP and its leaders brace for a potentially turbulent future.
I am present outside the residence of Delhi’s Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. At the moment, the weather in Delhi is slightly cold, and there is a chill in the air, but amidst this, there is also a certain tension in the atmosphere. Rumors are circulating that Arvind Kejriwal, the leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), could be arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at any moment. The speculation revolves around the ongoing Delhi excise policy case, which has already led to the imprisonment of former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.
Let’s discuss these developments, but first, it’s important to note that the first summons by the ED to Arvind Kejriwal was sent on October 31, with a scheduled appearance on November 2. Technically, it’s not a long time since then; it’s been approximately two and a half months. However, Kejriwal did not appear before the ED on November 2. Instead, he announced that he would be going to Indore for election campaigning. The team of Arvind Kejriwal also argued that the ED summons is illegal, lacking specific validation. A second summons was sent, but again, Kejriwal did not comply.
This situation has led to a legal contest between the ED and Arvind Kejriwal. Subsequent to these events, reports emerged suggesting that the ED might conduct a raid at Kejriwal’s residence tomorrow morning. While efforts were made to confirm this information, no concrete news has been received yet. Speculative reports indicate a possible raid by the ED at 7:00 or 8:00 AM. Nevertheless, at this point, there is no solid evidence to confirm that the ED will arrest Arvind Kejriwal tomorrow.
Following these speculations, the security outside Arvind Kejriwal’s residence has been heightened. Senior police officers, including DSP, ACP, and other high-ranking officials, are currently present. The situation is unfolding, and various leaders from the Aam Aadmi Party, such as Atishi Marlena and Saurabh Bhardwaj, have posted updates on their social media handles. It’s important to note that as of now, there is no conclusive evidence to support the claim that the ED will arrest Arvind Kejriwal tomorrow morning.
The atmosphere created in the political market and among journalists, along with increased security measures, raises questions about the potential actions of the ED regarding the Delhi excise policy case. The situation remains uncertain, and until solid proof emerges, the speculation around Arvind Kejriwal’s potential arrest continues.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds, and we will bring you the latest developments in this ongoing political and legal saga.
