NEW DELHI – On Monday, April 1, an Indian court extended the detention of Delhi Chief Minister and prominent opposition leader Arvind Kejriwal until April 15 in connection with a corruption case. The decision, made less than three weeks before the general elections, was confirmed by his legal representatives.
Kejriwal was arrested last month by India’s financial crime investigation agency on allegations related to Delhi’s liquor policy. Initially remanded in custody until April 1, his arrest has sparked protests from opposition groups.
Opposition parties have raised concerns, claiming that actions against Kejriwal and other opposition figures suggest an unfair electoral environment. The government has denied these allegations, asserting that legal proceedings are independent and impartial.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Kejriwal, described the charges as politically motivated. Meanwhile, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, refuted claims of political interference in the case.
According to the legal news portal Live Law, lawyers representing the Enforcement Directorate told the court that Kejriwal had been uncooperative and provided evasive responses during the investigation. They requested a 15-day extension of custody to continue their interrogation.
Sunita Kejriwal, the Chief Minister’s wife, expressed concerns over the court’s decision, accusing the government of using legal mechanisms to target her husband during the election period. She alleged that such actions were aimed at silencing political opponents.
BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi defended the court’s decision, stating that the detention extension was based on evidence and raised important legal and constitutional questions.
This development marks a critical moment as India prepares for its general elections, highlighting ongoing tensions between political parties and the judiciary's role in high-profile cases.
No comments