The Enforcement Directorate has charged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders as being the masterminds behind the now-scrapped liquor excise policy in Delhi. The central agency has alleged that Kejriwal and his colleagues demanded kickbacks from liquor businessmen in exchange for favors and knowingly used the proceeds of these bribes to fund AAP's Goa election campaign in 2021-2022. With the Rouse Avenue court taking cognisance of the chargesheet, Kejriwal may face serious legal consequences if found guilty.
Arvind Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Party Charged by Enforcement Directorate
Background:
The Enforcement Directorate (ED), India's financial investigation agency, has filed a chargesheet against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders in connection with the now-scrapped Delhi liquor excise policy.
Allegations:
The ED alleges that Kejriwal and his associates were the masterminds behind the policy, which was formulated to якобы favor certain liquor businessmen and generate illicit funds for AAP. The agency has further alleged that bribes were demanded from liquor licensees in exchange for favorable treatment and that the proceeds were used to fund AAP's Goa election campaign.
Consequences:
The Rouse Avenue court has taken cognizance of the chargesheet, which means that a trial will be held. If convicted, Kejriwal and the other accused could face serious legal consequences, including imprisonment.
Top 5 FAQs:
It was a government policy that regulated the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages in Delhi.
The policy was canceled in July 2022 by the Delhi government following allegations of corruption and irregularities.
He is accused of being the mastermind behind the policy and demanding kickbacks from liquor businessmen.
The ED has gathered evidence such as statements from witnesses, financial records, and electronic communication.
He could face imprisonment, disqualification from holding public office, and the loss of his assets.
Current Status:
The trial is ongoing in the Rouse Avenue court. The next hearing is scheduled to take place on March 20, 2023. The outcome of the trial will determine whether Kejriwal and the other accused are guilty of the alleged charges.
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