CBI Files Chargesheet Against Delhi CM Kejriwal in Excise Policy Case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal regarding the excise policy case. The Delhi High Court has reserved its order on Kejriwal’s plea to challenge his arrest and request interim bail. CBI argues for custodial interrogation, while Kejriwal claims persecution.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday filed a chargesheet against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others in Rouse Avenue Court concerning the excise policy case. The Delhi High Court has recently reserved its decision on Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest by the CBI and his request for interim bail.

During the hearing, CBI lawyer DP Singh argued that contrary to Kejriwal's claims, there is no need for re-evaluating the evidence at the investigation stage. The investigation, still ongoing, justifies the necessity of the petitioner's arrest. Kejriwal was confronted with substantial material during his examination.

The CBI maintains that it holds the exclusive right to both interrogate and arrest the accused, provided legal standards are met. Kejriwal's evasiveness during his interrogation on June 25, 2024, warranted custodial interrogation to unearth the truth. The law allows arrests if a suspect is believed to have committed a cognizable offense punishable by up to seven years of imprisonment.

However, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, argued that the arrest is unjust and akin to 'insurance arrest,' highlighting that multiple favorable bail orders were already issued by courts, including the Apex Court. He stressed the timing and process of Kejriwal's arrest lacked due notice and procedural fairness.

Singhvi also cited a comparison to former Pakistani PM Imran Khan's re-arrest, warning against such practices in India. Kejriwal, asserting his role as a political leader and Delhi's sitting Chief Minister, has approached the Delhi High Court claiming persecution and is seeking bail. The court has scheduled a hearing for July 17.

(With inputs from agencies.)