New Delhi: A 12-member team from the Enforcement Directorate arrived at the official residence of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal with a search warrant related to the excise policy case. Subsequently, Mr. Kejriwal was apprehended by the Enforcement Directorate, marking the first time a sitting chief minister has been arrested in the history of Independent India. Despite his arrest, his party affirmed that he would maintain his position as Chief Minister.
The Enforcement Directorate’s action followed the Delhi High Court’s denial of protection from arrest to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the liquor policy case. Mr. Kejriwal had contested the ED’s summons for questioning regarding alleged financial misconduct, consistently refusing to comply and deeming the summonses issued by the central agency as illegal.
“Stop politicizing and weaponizing the Enforcement Directorate (ED),” exclaimed Delhi Minister Atishi, highlighting the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal just as election season commenced. Atishi emphasized that despite a two-year investigation by both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the ED, no financial irregularities were uncovered. She expressed concern over the misuse of government agencies for political gains and urged for an end to such practices. Atishi reiterated her party’s commitment to continue their fight both on the streets and in the courts. Additionally, she mentioned that they have filed a petition in the Supreme Court against the arrest, with a hearing scheduled for the following morning.
“If anyone dares to voice dissent against the BJP, they’ll face arrest,” exclaimed Delhi Minister Gopal Rai, condemning the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by Prime Minister Modi’s government. Rai expressed dismay over the perceived erosion of democratic values, stating that the arrest amounted to an affront to the millions of people who cherish democracy. He accused the BJP of attempting to stifle opposition voices and warned that such actions would not deter the resolve of those fighting for justice. Rai announced plans for a protest at the BJP headquarters the following day, asserting that the battle against injustice would continue unabated.