Kejriwal Moves Supreme Court Against CBI Arrest, Seeks Bail

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal petitions Supreme Court against his arrest by CBI in excise policy case, after Delhi HC dismissed his plea. Kejriwal claims persecution; extensive investigations cited. Delhi HC Judge encourages him to seek bail from trial court amid complex conspiracy allegations.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has approached the Supreme Court, challenging his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) related to the excise policy case. Alongside, he has filed a bail plea. This follows the Delhi High Court's earlier decision to dismiss his petition against the arrest, recommending that he seek bail from the trial court. The High Court noted that the CBI, out of respect for Kejriwal's position, conducted extensive investigations across India before proceeding.

Kejriwal, in his plea to the Delhi High Court, emphasized his role as the National Convenor of Aam Aadmi Party and Delhi's sitting Chief Minister, claiming he is being persecuted for malign reasons. The court observed that the CBI had gathered sufficient material over one and a half years, only then seeking prosecution sanction granted on April 23, 2024, thus not acting out of malice.

The court acknowledged Kejriwal's distinguished status, noting his influence on witnesses who came forward only post his arrest. Justice Neena Bansal of the Delhi High Court remarked that given the case's complexities, Kejriwal's role in the alleged conspiracy must be determined accurately, suggesting he first address his bail plea with the Sessions Judge post the charge sheet filing. Former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was earlier granted bail by the Supreme Court in a related case.

(With inputs from agencies.)