Delhi High Court rejected Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's plea questioning the legality of his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the liquor case. The court reserved its judgment following the arguments by noted lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Assistant Solicitor General Raju. Kejriwal had been in ED custody for a week before being remanded to judicial custody until April 15.
Delhi High Court Rejects Arvind Kejriwal's Plea Regarding Liquor Case
Background
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on March 8, 2023, in connection with a money laundering case related to the Delhi liquor scam. Kejriwal's arrest was based on allegations that he received kickbacks from the liquor license holders in exchange for granting them favorable terms.
Delhi High Court Ruling
On March 15, 2023, the Delhi High Court rejected Kejriwal's plea challenging the legality of his arrest. The court reserved its judgment after hearing arguments from Kejriwal's lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, and the Assistant Solicitor General, Raju.
ED Custody and Judicial Custody
Kejriwal was initially detained by the ED for a week. On March 15, 2023, he was remanded to judicial custody until April 15, 2023. This means that Kejriwal will remain in jail unless he is granted bail by a higher court.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What is the Delhi liquor scam?
The Delhi liquor scam refers to allegations of corruption in the allocation of liquor licenses in Delhi in 2021-22. The ED is investigating allegations that government officials granted undue favors to certain liquor license holders in exchange for bribes.
2. Why was Arvind Kejriwal arrested?
Kejriwal was arrested by the ED for allegedly receiving kickbacks from liquor license holders in exchange for favorable terms. The ED claims that Kejriwal played a key role in the allocation of liquor licenses.
3. What is the significance of the Delhi High Court ruling?
The Delhi High Court ruling upholds the legality of Kejriwal's arrest. This means that Kejriwal will remain in judicial custody unless he is granted bail.
4. What are the potential consequences for Kejriwal?
If convicted in the liquor case, Kejriwal could face significant criminal penalties, including imprisonment. The allegations against him could also damage his political career.
5. What are the next steps in the case?
Kejriwal has the option to appeal the Delhi High Court ruling to a higher court. The ED is expected to continue its investigation into the liquor scam and may file additional charges against Kejriwal or other individuals involved.
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