Introduction
The Delhi High Court is set to pronounce its verdict on the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) plea seeking to pause a lower court’s order granting bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a money laundering case related to the now-scrapped liquor policy.
Background
On June 21, the Delhi High Court reserved its order after the ED challenged the lower court’s decision to grant bail to Kejriwal. The High Court put the bail order in abeyance until the pronouncement of the verdict, which is expected today at 2:30 pm. The ED argued that the lower court’s decision was “perverse,” “one-sided,” and based on irrelevant facts. Kejriwal, arrested on March 21, was granted bail on June 20 by the lower court on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh, with conditions to not hamper the investigation or influence witnesses.
Key Points
- ED’s Argument: The ED claims the lower court’s bail order did not consider substantial evidence showing Kejriwal’s involvement in the liquor policy case. They described the order as “perverse” and “one-sided.”
- Kejriwal’s Defense: Kejriwal refuted the allegations, calling them misleading and part of a conspiracy. He accused the ED of pressuring witnesses to give false statements against him.
- Supreme Court Involvement: The Supreme Court refused to immediately overturn the Delhi High Court’s pause on Kejriwal’s bail, advising to await the High Court’s order.
- Bail Conditions: Kejriwal was to be released on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh and was prohibited from interfering with the investigation or influencing witnesses.
Legal Provisions
| Section | Law | Details |
| 3 | Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 | Definition and punishment for money laundering |
| 45 | Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 | Conditions for bail |
| 439 | Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 | Special powers of High Court or Court of Session regarding bail |
Impact
- Political Implications: The outcome could significantly impact Kejriwal’s political career and the image of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
- Legal Precedent: The High Court’s decision could set a precedent for future high-profile political cases.
- Investigation Continuity: Depending on the verdict, the investigation into the liquor policy case may either proceed unhindered or face complications.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Court’s upcoming verdict on the ED’s plea against Arvind Kejriwal’s bail is crucial. It will determine the next legal steps in the money laundering case and potentially influence the political landscape and judicial processes in similar cases.
SOURCE – INDIA TODAY
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