The Delhi High Court reserved its judgment on the plea filed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is currently jailed. He is challenging his arrest and remand by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the excise policy case. Additionally, the court reserved its order on Kejriwal's request for interim bail.
CBI's Arguments
Special Public Prosecutor DP Singh, representing the CBI, argued that Kejriwal could not leverage the Supreme Court's interim bail granted for 21 days during the Lok Sabha elections. The CBI maintained that Kejriwal should not benefit from the trial court's June 20 order that granted him bail in the money laundering case. This order has been stayed by the Delhi High Court with a detailed 30-page reasoning.
Singh emphasized that the CBI has the authority to arrest an individual based on "mere suspicion" and that Kejriwal's arrest was justified due to "probable reasons." He argued that the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) allows for arrests to facilitate investigations. According to Singh, Kejriwal's arrest was necessary because his custodial interrogation was required.
Reasons for Arrest
The CBI claimed to have enough evidence to suggest that Kejriwal could potentially influence or derail the investigation. Singh noted that the CBI is nearing the completion of its probe and has reasonable concerns that Kejriwal might influence witnesses if released. He argued that Kejriwal should first seek bail from the trial court, as it is already hearing arguments on the charges.
Kejriwal's Defense
Kejriwal's counsel, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, accused the CBI of using delay tactics and failing to provide valid reasons for not hearing Kejriwal's bail plea. Singhvi pointed out that the CBI had not presented any new evidence since January 2024. He argued that the latest document from the CBI, dated June 13, had not been used in the case and questioned its relevance.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Court will decide on Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest and his request for interim bail. The arguments from both the CBI and Kejriwal's defense reflect the complexities and high stakes of this legal battle.