Supreme Court Grants Interim Bail To Arvind Kejriwal In Money Laundering Case

The Supreme Court of India has granted interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a money laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). However, Kejriwal remains in jail due to a separate arrest by the CBI. A larger bench will further deliberate the necessity of his arrest.

The Supreme Court on Friday granted interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a money laundering case lodged by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) concerning the alleged excise policy scam. Nevertheless, Kejriwal will remain in jail as the CBI had previously arrested him for a related matter.

A bench of justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta referred the case to a larger, preferably five-judge, bench to consider three fundamental questions on the aspect of ''need and necessity of arrest'' under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Kejriwal's CBI arrest over the alleged excise policy scam is currently being challenged in the Delhi High Court.

The apex court noted its findings on ''reasons to believe'' under section 19(1) of the PMLA, declaring the necessity to grant interim bail to Kejriwal. The bench emphasized that the right to life and liberty is sacrosanct, directing Kejriwal's release on interim bail under the conditions stipulated on May 10, 2024.

(With inputs from agencies.)