The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) rejoiced as the Supreme Court granted interim bail to Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi Chief Minister and national convenor of the party. This comes as a major relief for the party, which has been fighting against "dictatorship" and promoting democracy. With the order, Kejriwal will be temporarily released until June 1, adding to the hope and enthusiasm of party workers. The court has also stated that he will have to surrender once the interim bail term expires, putting a temporary hold on the ongoing excise policy scam case.
Background:
Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi and national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in October 2022 in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy scam. The ED alleged that Kejriwal had received kickbacks from liquor contractors as part of a "scam" to allow private players to operate retail liquor shops in Delhi.
Supreme Court Ruling:
On February 23, 2023, the Supreme Court granted interim bail to Arvind Kejriwal, allowing his release until June 1, 2023. The court stated that Kejriwal would have to surrender once the interim bail term expires.
Reaktion:
The AAP welcomed the Supreme Court's ruling and hailed it as a victory for democracy. AAP leader Manish Sisodia said, "This is a victory of democracy. The BJP's campaign of tyranny has been defeated." The BJP, on the other hand, criticized the court's decision, accusing Kejriwal of "trying to escape justice."
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. What is the Delhi Excise Policy scam?
The Delhi Excise Policy scam involves allegations that government officials granted undue favors to private liquor contractors in the process of awarding retail liquor shop licenses in Delhi.
2. What is Arvind Kejriwal's alleged involvement?
The ED alleges that Kejriwal received kickbacks from liquor contractors as part of a "scam" to allow private players to operate retail liquor shops in Delhi.
3. Why was Kejriwal granted interim bail?
The Supreme Court granted interim bail to Kejriwal on humanitarian grounds, as he has a medical condition that requires specialized treatment.
4. What will happen after the interim bail term expires?
Kejriwal will have to surrender to the ED and face trial in the Delhi Excise Policy scam case once the interim bail term expires.
5. What is the political impact of the Supreme Court's ruling?
The Supreme Court's decision has provided a reprieve for Kejriwal and the AAP, but it remains to be seen how the case will affect the party's political fortunes in the long run.
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