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Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal Visits Party Office for First Time After Tihar Jail Release

September 15, 2024, 12:28 pm

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal made his first visit to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) office on Sunday, following his release from Tihar Jail on Friday night. This visit marks his return to political activities after spending time in custody.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann noted that despite the challenges faced, Kejriwal managed to keep the party united from jail. Mann praised the resilience of both Kejriwal and the party workers, stating that other parties might have faltered under similar pressures.

On Saturday, Kejriwal met with senior party leaders to discuss various matters, including upcoming assembly elections in Haryana and organizational strategies within Delhi. AAP leaders revealed that Kejriwal will actively campaign in Haryana, where the party is contesting all 90 assembly seats.

The meeting, which took place at the residence of former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, was attended by key AAP figures such as Sanjay Singh and Gopal Rai. Following his release, Kejriwal conducted a roadshow from Chandgiram Akhara to his official residence.

Kejriwal’s release came after the Supreme Court granted him bail in connection with a corruption case related to the Delhi Excise Policy scam. The court ruled that continued incarceration would constitute an unjust deprivation of liberty. Conditions for his release include refraining from making public comments about the case and attending all trial court hearings, unless exempted.

Upon his release, Kejriwal was greeted by a large group of supporters who celebrated outside Tihar Jail and his residence with fireworks.

Flag Hoisting Uncertainty in Delhi: Kejriwal’s Jail Directive for Atishi Declared Invalid

August 13, 2024, 3:22 pm

The controversy surrounding flag hoisting on Independence Day in Delhi continues to intensify as the General Administration Department (GAD) of the GNCTD declared that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s authorization for Atishi to hoist the national flag on August 15 is legally “invalid.” The department responded to Minister Gopal Rai, stating that the Chief Minister’s directive cannot be followed.

Gopal Rai mentioned on Monday that he met with Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in Tihar jail, where Kejriwal authorized Atishi to hoist the flag at the Delhi government’s Independence Day event at Chhatrasal Stadium. However, the GAD countered by stating that Independence Day and Republic Day are national events with high constitutional significance. The department emphasized that there are established guidelines for celebrating these events, and any deviation from these rules could undermine their sanctity and might even constitute legal violations.

The GAD further highlighted specific rules from the Delhi Prison Rules, 2018, particularly Rules 585, 588, 620, and 627. They clarified that the communication from the CM does not meet the criteria for permissible communication from prison, which only allows private correspondence with a designated set of individuals. Therefore, the department asserted that the communication is “not legally valid and cannot be acted upon.”

The General Administration Department also sought to coordinate with the Chief Minister for his participation in the Independence Day function. However, the CM’s office indicated that he would be unavailable due to being in judicial custody. The department has informed higher authorities of the situation and is awaiting a decision. Meanwhile, all necessary arrangements for the Independence Day function at Chhatrasal Stadium are being made as per previous practices.

Reacting to the situation, former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, who was recently released from jail, expressed his disappointment. He called the development “very unfortunate” and criticized what he sees as political maneuvering on such a significant occasion.

Sisodia remarked, “It is very unfortunate that on such a sacred occasion like Independence Day, petty politics is being played… I keep reading in newspapers that when conman Sukesh writes a letter, Tihar officials submit it to the LG, and the LG takes action on it. But when the elected CM of Delhi writes a letter, the LG stops the Tihar officials from sending it to him.”

He further added, “If the CM has written a letter in connection with Independence Day, the LG office should simply contact the DG office and ask them to forward it, but it has nothing to do with Independence Day.”

Delhi HC to Decide on Arvind Kejriwal’s Bail Request After CBI Opposition

July 29, 2024, 7:36 pm

On Monday, the Delhi High Court reserved its decision regarding Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s request for regular bail in the ongoing CBI investigation related to the excise policy.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) opposed Kejriwal’s bail application, labeling him as the “sutradhar” or mastermind of the case. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna’s bench noted the arguments from both parties before making its decision.

During the hearing, CBI Special Counsel DP Singh informed the court that new evidence implicating Kejriwal had emerged as the investigation advanced. Singh revealed that a chargesheet had been filed earlier that morning, naming six individuals, including Kejriwal, though only one of them had been arrested so far.

The CBI also indicated that their investigation into Kejriwal had been concluded quickly, with the chargesheet being prepared within a month of his arrest. Singh emphasized that Kejriwal is at the center of the alleged excise policy scam. He highlighted that, as the head of the cabinet during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kejriwal had signed the excise policy and swiftly circulated it among his colleagues for their signatures.

Singh further noted that C Aravind, an IAS officer under Manish Sisodia, testified that Vijay Nair brought the excise policy for data entry while Kejriwal was present, suggesting Kejriwal’s direct involvement. The CBI also traced Rs 44 crore connected to the case, which was allegedly sent to Goa, with Kejriwal reportedly instructing his candidates to focus on elections rather than worry about the funds.

Singh argued that, although there might be a lack of direct evidence, testimonies from three witnesses and 164 statements made in court point to Kejriwal’s involvement. He claimed this evidence surfaced only after Kejriwal’s arrest, as otherwise, witnesses from Punjab might not have come forward. Singh also mentioned that Kejriwal sought retroactive approval for the excise policy from the council of ministers once the issue gained media attention.

Breaking: CBI Charges Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal In Excise Policy Scam

July 29, 2024, 10:56 am

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has submitted a charge sheet against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others to the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi, related to the excise policy case.

Additionally, the top court will address Deputy Chief Minister and AAP leader Manish Sisodia’s bail plea today concerning the money laundering and corruption charges linked to the alleged liquor policy scam.

LS Polls 2024: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal Casts Vote With Family Members

May 25, 2024, 11:53 am

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, accompanied by his family, cast his vote at Civil Lines in Delhi.

Following the vote, Kejriwal stated, “My father, wife, children and I have voted. My mother could not come today because she is not well. I have voted against dictatorship, inflation and unemployment. I appeal to people to come out and vote…”

The sixth phase of Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will determine the electoral fate of leaders from high-profile constituencies, including Anantnag, Rajouri, Puri, and North East Delhi. Of the 58 Lok Sabha seats, 14 are from Uttar Pradesh, 10 from Haryana, eight each from West Bengal and Bihar, seven from Delhi, six from Odisha, four from Jharkhand, and one from Jammu and Kashmir.

Kejriwal On Swati Maliwal Case: “Tomorrow, Delhi Police Will Come To Interrogate My Old And Ill Parents”

May 23, 2024, 2:03 am

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal revealed on Wednesday that the Delhi Police would be questioning his elderly parents on Thursday, suspected to be related to the Swati Maliwal assault case.

“Tomorrow, Delhi Police will come to interrogate my old and ill parents,” stated the Delhi CM in a post on X.

कल दिल्ली पुलिस मेरे बूढ़े और बीमार माता पिता से पूछताछ करने आएगी।

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 22, 2024

Following Kejriwal’s announcement, Delhi Water Minister Atishi echoed his sentiments and criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for implicating Kejriwal’s parents in the case.

“I want to ask PM Modi and BJP that 85 years old father of Arvind Kejriwal who cannot walk alone without support and the mother of Arvind Kejriwal who just returned home a few days ago after spending a long time in the hospital, do they think that 85-year-old patients raised their hands on Swati Maliwal? Does the BJP feel this?” said Atishi.

Kejriwal stressed the need for a fair investigation into the case, highlighting the existence of two conflicting versions of the incident.

“I want fair investigation, justice in Swati Maliwal assault case as incident has two versions,” expressed Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to news agency PTI.

While acknowledging the matter’s sub-judice status and its potential impact on legal proceedings, Kejriwal emphasized the importance of impartiality in the investigation process.

“But I expect there will be a fair investigation. Justice should be served. There are two versions of the event. Police should investigate both versions fairly and justice should be done,” Kejriwal asserted.

Barricades Outside BJP Office: Delhi Police Blocks AAP’s Planned March to BJP Headquarters

May 19, 2024, 1:21 pm

The Delhi Police announced on Sunday that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) would not be permitted to conduct its planned march to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters.

The AAP had organized the demonstration outside the BJP office to protest against the arrest of several AAP leaders by central agencies. Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal is currently out on bail until June 1 in the excise policy case, while his personal assistant Bibhav Kumar was arrested on Saturday for the alleged May 13 assault on Swati Maliwal, the party’s Rajya Sabha member.

1. Police officials stated that no permission had been sought for the protest, and as a result, the AAP’s march would not be permitted. Section 144, which prohibits the gathering of more than four people at a place, is in effect on the DDU Marg and the ITO area, where the two parties have their offices.

2. There was a heavy presence of security forces at the headquarters of the BJP, the country’s ruling party since 2014. Barricades were set up outside the facility.

3. Security forces were also deployed outside the office of the Aam Aadmi Party, which has been governing Delhi since December 2013 and has strained relations with the BJP-led Centre.

4. Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory ahead of the demonstration. “Traffic will remain heavy at DDU Marg, IP Marg, Minto Road, and Vikas Marg. DDU Marg may be closed for traffic movement between 11 am to 2 pm. Kindly avoid these roads and plan your journey accordingly,” it said in a post on X (previously Twitter).

5. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced that entry/exit gates at the ITO station would remain closed “until further notice.”

Swati Maliwal Assault Case: AAP MP Alleges CCTV Tampering at Delhi CM’s Residence

May 18, 2024, 2:49 am

In a new development regarding the Swati Maliwal assault case, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP alleged tampering with the closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s residence. Taking to X on Friday evening, Swati Maliwal stated, “I have received information that now these people are tampering with the CCTV of the house,” tagging Delhi Police in her post.

Earlier, a team of Delhi Police, along with forensic officials, arrived at the CM’s residence for scene recreation as part of the investigation into the alleged assault on Maliwal. The team departed after investigation and videography of the premises.

This comes after Delhi CM Kejriwal’s aide filed a complaint against Maliwal, alleging unauthorized entry, verbal abuse, threats, and a potential BJP involvement. Notably, the Vigilance Department had terminated the service of Kejriwal’s assistant last month over a pending criminal case.

In his complaint, Kejriwal’s aide urged authorities to take legal action against Maliwal and investigate her possible ties with BJP leaders. This complaint emerged amid a row over Maliwal’s allegations against the aide for ‘assaulting’ her at the CM’s residence.

AAP attacked Maliwal on Friday over a purported video clip from the CM’s residence, showing her having an argument with security personnel. This marked the first time AAP took a stand against Maliwal in the case, contradicting earlier statements of support.

Earlier, Delhi Police filed an FIR based on Maliwal’s complaint, alleging assault and intimidation by Kejriwal’s aide. Maliwal responded, accusing her party of protecting a “Gunda” and engaging in her “character assassination.”

Delhi’s Tis Hazari court recorded Maliwal’s statement in the assault case on Friday. An FIR was filed against Kejriwal’s aide and others based on her complaint, citing various sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Swati Maliwal Row: Kejriwal’s Aide Bibhav Kumar Files Counter FIR Against AAP’s MP

May 17, 2024, 10:17 pm

The Aam Aadmi Party stated that CM Arvind Kejriwal’s aide Bibhav Kumar filed a police complaint against the party’s Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal.

This came after Delhi Police filed an FIR against Bibhav Kumar for allegedly assaulting Maliwal at the CM’s official residence.

AAP accused the BJP of orchestrating Maliwal’s allegation, claiming it’s a plot to frame Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. Atishi, a senior AAP leader, asserted that Maliwal arrived at the CM’s residence without an appointment to level accusations against Kejriwal.

In his complaint against Swati Maliwal, Bibhav Kumar alleged that Maliwal forcefully entered the CM’s residence on May 13, created chaos, assaulted him, and is now trying to falsely implicate him.

He claimed that Maliwal shouted, abused the office staff of CM Arvind Kejriwal, and refused to follow proper procedure for meeting the CM.

According to Bibhav’s complaint, Maliwal attempted to enter restricted areas of the CM’s residence, and when stopped, she pushed him, dialed the PCR, and made false allegations against him.

Reportedly, Swati Maliwal has also removed her display picture from the Social Media Platform ‘X’.

AAP To Hold Press Conference Amid Alleged Assault On MP Swati Maliwal

May 17, 2024, 5:43 pm

Amid the ongoing controversy over the alleged assault of AAP MP Swati Maliwal at the residence of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, the party has announced a press conference to “bring out the reality” of the situation. AAP minister Atishi posted on X, “Will be doing a press conference today at 6 pm to bring out the reality of the Swati Maliwal issue.”

In the meantime, the Delhi Police’s forensic unit arrived at the Chief Minister’s residence to collect evidence related to the alleged assault on Swati Maliwal. Earlier in the day, AAP criticized Maliwal over a purported video from the CM’s residence, supposedly filmed on the day of the alleged incident. The party shared the video, which was posted by a news channel, with the caption “Swati Maliwal ka sach (Swati Maliwal’s truth).” The video allegedly shows Maliwal arguing with security personnel at the CM’s residence.

This marks the first instance of AAP opposing Maliwal’s account, contradicting AAP MP Sanjay Singh’s earlier statement that Arvind Kejriwal had acknowledged the incident and called for “strict action,” emphasizing that the party supports Swati Maliwal.

In response to the same video, Swati Maliwal criticized an anonymous individual, calling him a “political hitman” and accusing him of trying to protect himself. She stated that the ‘truth’ will be revealed once the CCTV footage of the house and the room is examined. Maliwal wrote on X, “Like every time, this time also this political hitman has started efforts to save himself. By getting his people to tweet and play videos without any context, he thinks he can save himself by committing this crime.” She added, “Who makes a video of someone being beaten up? The truth will be revealed to everyone as soon as the CCTV footage of the house and the room is checked. Fall to whatever level you can, God is watching everything. One day everyone’s truth will come out in front of the world.”

The Delhi Police filed an FIR in the case based on Swati Maliwal’s complaint, which revealed shocking details. According to the FIR, Maliwal alleged that Kejriwal’s personal secretary, Bibhav Kumar, “slapped” her “at least seven to eight times” while she “continued screaming” and “brutally dragged” her while “kicking” her in her “chest, stomach and pelvis area.”

Maliwal recounted the events of May 13 when she visited the Civil Lines residence of Chief Minister Kejriwal. According to the FIR, she stated, “I went inside the camp office and called CM’s PS Bibhav Kumar but I could not go in. I then sent a message to his mobile number (through WhatsApp). However, there was no response. I then went inside the residential area through the main door, as I have always done in the past year. Since Bibhav Kumar was not present, I entered the residence area and informed the staff present there to tell the CM here to meet him.”

Maliwal continued in her complaint, “I was informed that he was present in the house and I was told to wait in the drawing room. I went into the drawing room and sat on the sofa and waited for him to meet me.” She described the assault, stating, “He then abused me and asked, who are you to not listen to what I say. While saying these words, he came and stood right in front of me. Without any provocation whatsoever on my side, he started slapping me with full force. He slapped me seven to eight times, at least while I continued screaming. I felt absolutely shocked and was screaming for help over and over again. In order to protect myself, I pushed him away with my legs.”

Maliwal added, “I repeatedly told him that he should please let go of me as I was in unbearable pain. However, he attacked me with full force again and again. I somehow managed to get free. I then sat on the sofa of the drawing room and gathered my spectacles that had fallen on the ground during the assault. I was in a terrible state of shock at this attack. I was deeply traumatised and called the 112 number and reported the crime against me.”

The FIR was filed under IPC Sections 308 (Attempt to commit culpable homicide), 341 (Punishment for wrongful restraint), 354B (Assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe), 506 (Punishment for criminal intimidation), and 509 (Word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman).

If You Choose Jhadu, I Won’t Have To Go Back To Jail: Delhi CM Kejriwal

May 12, 2024, 8:38 pm

Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, who was temporarily released from Tihar Jail on interim bail, assured attendees at a roadshow today that if they vote for him, he won’t have to go back to jail. “I have to go back to jail after 20 days. If you choose jhadu (AAP’s symbol), I won’t have to go back to jail,” the Chief Minister said.

Mr. Kejriwal’s comeback to the hustle and bustle of campaigning after spending 50 days in jail has injected new energy into AAP, which had been dealing with various challenges. Senior party leader Saurabh Bhardwaj mentioned that this development would also have a significant impact on the INDIA bloc.

Fresh out of jail, the Chief Minister immediately immersed himself in campaigning, conducting a roadshow in Moti Nagar to support Somnath Bharti, the party’s candidate for the New Delhi seat. During the event, he conveyed to the crowd that his absence could affect the progress made for the people.

“If I went back to jail, the BJP would stop your work, free electricity, degrade schools and shut down hospitals and Mohalla Clinics,” said the Chief Minister, accompanied by his Punjab counterpart Bhagwant Mann. “They sent me to jail because I worked for you. The BJP does not want that work of Delhi people are done.”

Delhi votes for its seven Lok Sabha seats on May 25.

The AAP leader, who was arrested in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case, has been granted interim bail until June 1st, coinciding with the conclusion of the Lok Sabha election voting. He is required to surrender on June 2.

The Supreme Court, which was considering the challenge to Mr. Kejriwal’s arrest, unexpectedly decided to hear his bail petition as well. When granting him bail, the judges remarked that he was not a “habitual offender” and took into account the ongoing election.

“There are elections (and) these are extraordinary circumstances, and he is not a habitual offender. This is a question of public interest,” said the bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta.

Mumbai: Arvind Kejriwal Invited To MVA Rally On May 17, Same Day As PM Modi

May 12, 2024, 4:25 pm

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut announced that AAP leader and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has been invited to the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s (MVA) rally in Mumbai on May 17, which will mark the end of the campaign in the city. Mumbai is scheduled to vote on May 20.

Raut stated that Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray personally invited Kejriwal, who accepted the invitation. He mentioned, “On May 17, MVA’s final rally will be held. So we have invited him and he has accepted the invitation. Narendra Modi is also in Mumbai the same day; Arvind Kejriwal will be on MVA’s stage.”

Senior leaders from Congress and NCP (Sharad Pawar) are also expected to attend the rally. NCP (SP) supremo Sharad Pawar is likely to be present as well.

A total of 13 Lok Sabha seats, including 10 from the MMR region and Dhule, Dindori, and Nashik, will go to polls on May 20, marking the fifth and final phase of elections in Maharashtra.

Kejriwal, who was granted interim bail till June 1 by the Supreme Court on Friday, had been in Tihar Jail in connection with an alleged money laundering case related to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. The bail was granted to allow him to campaign, although his plea for bail until the counting of votes on June 4 was rejected.

Emotional Homecoming: Arvind Kejriwal Welcomed with Garlands, Aarti and Hugs After 50 Days in Jail

May 10, 2024, 11:05 pm

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has returned home today following the Supreme Court’s decision to grant him interim bail until June 1. Mr Kejriwal was taken into custody by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21 in connection with the Excise Policy Case.

At approximately 7 pm today, after 50 days in detention, the Delhi Chief Minister emerged from jail, greeted by a large crowd of Aam Aadmi Party supporters outside Tihar Jail. Upon his arrival home, Mr Kejriwal received a warm welcome from AAP MP Sanjay Singh, who embraced him as soon as he stepped out of the car.

Inside, Arvind Kejriwal was greeted by his parents and wife with traditional aarti and garlands. His mother stood at the door, holding a garland to welcome her son, whom she greeted with a hug and blessings. Beside her, Mr Kejriwal’s father also embraced his son, patting his back affectionately.

The release of the AAP chief not only energizes his party but also the INDI alliance. Sunita Kejriwal, Arvind Kejriwal’s wife, recognized as AAP’s key campaigner in Gujarat and Delhi for the Lok Sabha elections, welcomed her husband home by garlanding him.

Arvind Kejriwal outlined his schedule for the first half of Saturday, including a visit to a Hanuman temple in New Delhi’s Connaught Place at 11 am, followed by a press conference at the AAP office at 1 pm.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal Face Voting Dilemma

April 28, 2024, 11:04 am

Delhi, where Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his former ministers are currently in jail, is scheduled to vote in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha Elections on May 25, 2024. However, if they remain incarcerated on that day, they cannot exercise their voting rights. This is due to the absence of a provision for voting by prisoners in India, regardless of their conviction status.

“It will also depend on what the Supreme Court says on April 29. The top court will hear on April 29 the petitions filed by former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal against their arrests by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). These petitions are listed before the bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta,” reported by Hindustan Times.

In 2019 Lok Sabha Elections, Kejriwal cast his vote at a polling booth in civil lines area of Delhi.

The Voting Rights

Article 326 of the Constitution of India provides that voting right in elections to the Parliament or the assembly is based on adult suffrage.

“That is to say, every person who is a citizen of India and who is not less that eighteen years of age on such date as may be fixed in the behalf by or under any law made by the appropriate Legislature and is not otherwise disqualified under the Constitution or any law made by the appropriate Legislature on the ground of non-residence, unsoundness of mind, crime or corrupt or illegal practice, shall be entitled to be registered as a voter at any such election,” reads Article 326.

The Representation of the People Act, 1951 mentions who cannot vote. According to Section 62(5) of this law, no person is eligible to vote if he/she is confined in a prison or is in the lawful custody of the police.

“No person shall vote at any election if he is confined in a prison, whether under a sentence of imprisonment or transportation or otherwise, or is in the lawful custody of the police,” reads the section.

There are over five lakh undertrials, including Arvind Kejriwal, who cannot exercise their franchise. The law, however, doesn’t prohibit prisoners in preventive detention from voting.

Supreme Court intervention

The constitutionality of Section 62(5) of Representation of the People Act, 1951 has been challenged in the courts. In 2019, for example, the Delhi High Court reaffirmed that prisoners do not have a right to vote in the Praveen Kumar Chaudhary vs Election Commission of India case.

On May 4, 2024, the Supreme Court refused to entertain a PIL challenging Section 62(5) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 and seeking for right to vote for prisoners. The court said that the Supreme Court had already upheld Section 62(5) twice.

“The constitutional validity of the provision under Section 62(5) of the Representation of People Act, 1951 has been upheld by a two judge bench of this Court and later by a three judge bench of this Court. In view of these decisions we are not inclined to entertain the petition”, said the bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud.

Undertrials can contest elections.

While those behind the bars cannot vote, they can, however, contest elections as per the law. There is no provision in the law that bars undertrials from contesting elections unless convicted. Even for convicted politicians, the disqualification is not more than 6 years post the expiry of the jail term.

As per the existing laws, if a person is convicted and sentenced to a jail term not less than two years, he/she stands disqualified automatically from contesting elections for six years from the date of release.

This rule is mentioned in Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act-1951, which deals with disqualification of politicians from assembly and Parliament, after being convicted.

“A person convicted of any offence and sentenced to imprisonment for not less than two years other than any offence referred to in sub-section (1) or sub-section (2) shall be disqualified from the date of such conviction and shall continue to be disqualified for a further period of six years since his release,” reads the Section 8(3) in the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

There have been examples of people contesting, and winning elections from behind the bars. Recently, jailed pro-Khalistan leader Amritpal Singh, who is currently lodged in a jail in Assam, has expressed willingness to contest the Lok Sabha polls from Punjab’s Khadoor Sahib seat as an independent candidate.

Singh, chief of the ‘Waris Punjab De’ outfit, was arrested in April last year after being booked under the National Security Act (NSA).

There is a long list of jailed politicians winning elections in India. In the post-Emergency 1977 elections, socialist leader George Fernandes contested elections from Muzaffarpur in Bihar while he was still behind bars. Fernandes defeated the Congress candidate by around 3 lakh votes.

In 1996, don-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari, who died last month, contested the Mau Assembly seat in Uttar Pradesh on a BSP ticket while he was in prison. Ansari won.

Sukesh Chandrashekhar Urges Home Minister’s Intervention in Delhi Excise Policy Case

April 21, 2024, 10:08 am

Sukesh Chandrashekhar, currently incarcerated in Delhi’s Mandoli Jail, has reached out to Home Minister Amit Shah, urging his “intervention” in the ongoing investigation into the Delhi Excise Policy case, which led to the recent arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Chandrashekhar, a key figure in a Rs 200 crore extortion case, has submitted screenshots of WhatsApp conversations allegedly involving him, Bharat Rashtra Samithi MLC K. Kavitha, former Delhi minister Satyendar Jain, and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.

The messages purportedly outline cash transactions, with amounts coded as “Ghee Tin,” representing Rs 1 crore each, according to Chandrashekhar’s complaint.

He claims that his staff in Hyderabad collected the cash at Kavitha’s behest and then transferred it to Delhi and Goa.

Chandrashekhar contends that these conversations provide substantial evidence of Kavitha, Jain, and Kejriwal’s involvement in the transactions.

In his plea, Chandrashekhar expresses his willingness to fully cooperate with the investigation and provide additional evidence regarding the “alleged AAP Syndicate, led by Arvind Kejriwal, Satyendar Jain, Manish Sisodia, Kailash Gahlot, and K. Kavitha.”

The complaint requests swift action by the Home Minister in line with the law.

SC to hear CM Kejriwal’s plea against arrest on April 15

April 13, 2024, 1:06 pm

The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hear Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on April 15. This follows the Delhi High Court’s recent decision to uphold his arrest by the central agency.

A bench comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta will be presiding over the matter, according to news agency ANI.

Arvind Kejriwal was taken into custody by the Enforcement Directorate last month as part of a money laundering investigation related to the Delhi excise policy case. Last week, a Delhi court remanded him to judicial custody until April 15.

Kejriwal subsequently approached the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court ruled that there had been no violation of legal provisions in his case.

Delhi HC to deliver verdict today on Delhi CM’s plea against arrest in excise policy case

April 9, 2024, 1:18 pm

Today, the Delhi High Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwal’s challenge against his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the excise policy money laundering case. Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma has designated 2:30 pm as the time for the announcement of the verdict.

Arvind Kejriwal was given remand to the ED by the trial court despite his protests against his arrest. The bench postponed making a verdict on the issue last week after hearing thorough arguments from both sides.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, argued that the case raises concerns regarding timing, suggesting that it could impede the petitioner’s involvement in the democratic process, potentially affecting his party, particularly in light of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, with the first phase of polling scheduled for April 19.

The ED refuted the plea, asserting that Kejriwal cannot seek “immunity” from arrest based on upcoming elections, as the law applies equally to him as it does to any ordinary citizen.

Furthermore, the ED alleged that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) received a significant portion of funds from illegal activities related to the Delhi liquor scam. It claimed that approximately ₹45 crore of these funds were allegedly utilized in AAP’s electoral campaign during the Goa Assembly elections in 2022.

Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21 after the high court declined to provide him protection from coercive action by the federal anti-money laundering agency. Following the conclusion of his ED custody, he was placed in judicial custody on April 1 after appearing in the trial court.

The case centers around allegations of corruption and money laundering in the development and implementation of the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22, which was subsequently revoked.

ED likely to produce Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal before court today

April 1, 2024, 9:00 am

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently in ED custody over an excise policy-related money laundering case, is scheduled to appear before the Rouse Avenue court in the city at 11 am today, April 1.

On March 28, the court extended Kejriwal’s ED custody until April 1. The Enforcement Directorate had arrested the AAP leader on March 21 in connection with an alleged liquor policy case. The investigative team sought an extension on Thursday, citing the necessity to further interrogate the Delhi CM and confront him with other individuals. The ED informed the court about ongoing statements being recorded from some AAP Goa candidates.

Representing the ED, ASG SV Raju stated, “He is deliberately not cooperating with us,” emphasizing that Kejriwal’s statements have been recorded but have yielded evasive replies. Kejriwal, presenting his case in court, argued that a false narrative of AAP corruption has been propagated nationwide. He questioned the basis for his arrest, citing being named by four witnesses in the excise policy case.

“It is a political conspiracy, and the people will respond to it,” Kejriwal asserted during his last appearance at the Rouse Avenue court on March 28, marking the end of his ED custody.

On March 31, prominent leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, and Tejashwi Yadav, organized a protest against Kejriwal’s ED arrest at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. Kejriwal’s wife, Sunita Kejriwal, participated in the ‘Save Democracy’ rally. Sunita Kejriwal read out a letter penned by her husband in jail during the rally, where Kejriwal pledged six guarantees on behalf of the Opposition’s INDIA bloc.

These guarantees encompassed 24-hour electricity nationwide, free electricity for the underprivileged, government schools in every village and locality, Mohalla Clinics, MSP for farmers, among others. The ED has responded to two revisions filed by Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal challenging the summons issued on Saturday. Special judge Rakesh Syal has scheduled the matter for argument on April 24.

The ED has alleged Kejriwal’s involvement as a key conspirator in the liquor scam. According to the agency, Kejriwal received substantial kickbacks from the ‘South Group’ for formulating Delhi’s excise policy and utilized these funds during the Goa and Punjab elections.

High Court to hear Delhi CM Kejriwal’s plea today

March 27, 2024, 10:27 am

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear a petition filed by Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the ED in connection with a money-laundering case associated with the alleged excise policy scandal. The national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was arrested on March 21 and later remanded to the custody of the ED until March 28 by a Delhi court. Kejriwal had submitted his petition to the high court last week; however, sources indicate that his plea for an expedited hearing was declined due to the closure of the high court for the Holi festival.

On Tuesday, there was a clash of demonstrations in the streets of Delhi as both the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) staged protests throughout the national capital. The AAP protested against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest, while the BJP demanded his resignation, just a day before the Delhi High Court is set to address the issue.

Punjab education minister Harjot Bains, AAP’s Malviya Nagar legislator Somnath Bharti, and Delhi assembly deputy speaker Rakhi Birla were among those detained by Delhi Police on Tuesday morning at Patel Chowk Metro station.

AAP organized a march from Patel Chowk Metro station to the Prime Minister’s residence to protest Kejriwal’s arrest in connection with alleged irregularities and kickbacks linked to Delhi’s now-voided excise policy for liquor. However, the police enforced Section 144 in the entire New Delhi district and detained the protestors.

Bharti criticized the selective detention of peaceful AAP protesters and accused the authorities of bias and undermining democracy.

Simultaneously, Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva and several party leaders were detained during a protest march near the Delhi Secretariat, calling for Kejriwal’s resignation. Police used water cannons against the BJP leaders when they breached a barricade and approached the building.

AAP supporters gathered at the Metro station around 10 am, although senior AAP leaders or Delhi cabinet ministers did not attend the protest.

Security was heightened across parts of New Delhi, and the detained individuals were taken to various police stations in five buses. Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla confirmed the detentions, stating that the protestors were released by evening.

Protesting BJP leaders accused Kejriwal of hypocrisy and power-hunger, emphasizing the need for his resignation.

BJP MLA Vijender Gupta claimed that Sunita Kejriwal, the Delhi CM’s wife, made a statement resembling an official address, utilizing the CM’s office backdrop, which Gupta considered a misuse of authority.

AAP asserted that Kejriwal’s arrest wouldn’t hinder his commitment to serving the people and dismissed the case against him as “false.”

Delhi excise scam: BRS leader K Kavitha sent to judicial custody till April 9

March 26, 2024, 1:14 pm

The Rouse Avenue Court has extended Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC K Kavitha’s judicial custody until April 9 in relation to the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case. The court has also scheduled a hearing for April 1 to consider an interim bail plea filed by K Kavitha.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) sought Kavitha’s judicial custody, citing concerns about her potential influence over witnesses and evidence tampering if released. The agency stated that the investigation into economic crimes, such as those alleged in this case, is complex and requires careful scrutiny.

Kavitha, a Telangana Member of Legislative Council (MLC) and the daughter of former chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao, was arrested on March 15 in Hyderabad. She was remanded to ED custody the following day after a search operation at her residence.

Earlier, the Supreme Court declined to entertain K Kavitha’s bail plea in the Delhi excise policy case, directing her to approach the trial court for bail expeditiously.

The case revolves around allegations that Kavitha conspired with top leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), including Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, to gain advantages in the formulation and implementation of the Delhi Excise policy, allegedly involving a payment of Rs 100 crore to AAP leaders.

The ED’s investigation stemmed from a report by Delhi Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena in July 2022, highlighting procedural irregularities in the policy’s formulation.

The ED has alleged that the policy was designed to benefit private entities in the wholesale liquor business, with a kickback scheme involving AAP leaders. Sisodia was arrested earlier in connection with the case.

Kavitha’s arrest is linked to her alleged involvement with the “South Group,” identified as a group of individuals who allegedly paid kickbacks to AAP leaders. Meanwhile, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal was remanded to ED custody until March 28 in the same case, following his arrest by the probe agency.

Jairam Ramesh criticises BJP for Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s detention

March 23, 2024, 9:19 am

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the BJP on Saturday regarding the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, suggesting that the BJP was apprehensive about the INDIA bloc’s influence in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Speaking to ANI, Ramesh remarked, “The arrest of Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren and Delhi Chief Minister is an attack on democracy and our constitution.” He further stated, “This is politics of revenge at play. The BJP is afraid of the INDIA alliance. This is an attack on democracy and our constitution.”

Ramesh launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that his sole agenda is “One Nation, No Election.” He added, “There is only one thought in the Prime Minister’s mind-‘One Nation, No Election’… The entire country is in OPD-One Person Dictatorship.”

Earlier, the BJP’s Delhi president Virendraa Sachdeva asserted that the truth regarding Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s alleged involvement in the liquor scam would soon come to light. Sachdeva told ANI, “Law is taking its course…Yesterday he was bargaining in the court that he is the Chief Minister of Delhi, hence he should be given two months but there is a rule of law in the country. The law treats every criminal the same, it is proven today. Soon the truth of Arvind Kejriwal’s involvement in liquor scam will be revealed to everyone.”

Enforcement Directorate to Present Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in Front of Special Court

March 22, 2024, 11:00 am

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday, is scheduled to appear before a special court today. The ED team had arrived at Kejriwal’s residence on Thursday to question him regarding the liquor policy case. Kejriwal was arrested during a search operation at his residence, as he had failed to secure interim protection from arrest in the liquor policy case from the Delhi High Court.

Following the arrest, security was heightened at the ITO near the Aam Aadmi Party office in Delhi. AAP leaders condemned the arrest, calling it a move by the BJP to silence opposition voices ahead of the elections. Saurabh Bharadwaj, an AAP Minister, stated, “They did not have any questions for the Delhi CM…just to shut that voice, the Chief Minister of Delhi has been arrested.”

Atishi, another AAP leader, described Kejriwal’s arrest as the BJP’s “political conspiracy” to divert attention from the electoral bonds case. She emphasized that this was the first time a sitting CM had been arrested by the central government.

AAP supporters protested against Kejriwal’s arrest, while leaders of the INDIA bloc extended their support for the AAP leader. BJP leaders, on the other hand, supported the ED’s actions, claiming that Kejriwal was paying for alleged corruption. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonwalla criticized the AAP, stating, “AAP leaders are saying that Arvind Kejriwal is not a human, but an ideology…when the court takes action, he will call it an atrocity…And play the victim card.”

The INDIA bloc parties criticized the BJP for using the ED as a weapon against the opposition. Congress leader KC Venugopal stated, “EC has become a weapon of the government for vendetta politics against the opposition.”

In a related development, the ED also arrested Bharat Rashta Samithi (BRS) leader, the daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, in connection with money laundering charges linked to the now-scrapped excise policy. Two senior AAP leaders, Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, are currently in judicial custody in the excise policy case.

Delhi Budget 2024-2025: AAP govt allocates ₹16,396 crore for education

March 4, 2024, 2:21 pm

Atishi, the Finance Minister of Delhi, presented the city’s budget for 2024-25 on Monday, highlighting the Arvind Kejriwal government’s emphasis on education. Proposing an allocation of ₹16,396 crore for the education sector in her inaugural budget speech, Atishi frequently mentioned ‘Lord Ram’ and ‘Ram Rajya.’

The total budget outlay for Delhi is ₹76,000 crore; Referring to Arvind Kejriwal as a ray of hope, Atishi expressed pride in presenting the government’s tenth budget and portrayed it as a transformative vision for Delhi. She affirmed the commitment to realizing the dream of ‘Ram Rajya’ and highlighted the trust the people of Delhi have in Kejriwal’s honesty. Atishi stated that all AAP MLAs draw inspiration from Lord Ram and are dedicated to bringing ‘Ram Rajya’ to Delhi.

She emphasized that saving lives aligns with the principles of ‘Ram Rajya’ and discussed the ‘Farishtey Dilli Ke’ scheme, wherein the government bears expenses for accident victims, having saved 22,000 lives under this initiative. Atishi announced an allocation of ₹8,685 crore for the health sector and introduced the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojna, offering ₹1000 per month to women aged 18 and above.

While Arvind Kejriwal identifies as a Lord Hanuman devotee, AAP leaders abstained from the consecration ceremony of Ayodhya’s Ram Temple in January. Responding to the budget speech, BJP leader Bansuri Swaraj criticized the AAP government, alleging duplicity and stating, “It shows the duplicity of the (Delhi) government, which is deeply indulged in corruption, talking about ‘Ram Rajya.’ It doesn’t even suit them. There’s nothing new in today’s (Delhi) budget.”

Section 174 Filed Against Kejriwal After He Skips Summons

February 19, 2024, 12:24 pm

Hours after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal skipped the Enforcement Directorate’s summons for the sixth time, sources said that the agency claimed that the court had taken cognizance of a complaint filed by a probe agency under Section 174 of the Indian Penal Code against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader.
Section 174 refers to not obeying a legal order to attend a certain place in person or by an agent.

According to sources, the complaint was filed against Kejriwal for purposefully violating the first three summons issued to him.
According to agency sources, the court has taken cognizance of the matter and has tentatively acknowledged that Kejriwal committed an offense for which he may face prosecution.

They went on to say that the matter before the court is not about the legitimacy of the summons but about Kejriwal’s criminal act of knowingly violating the three summons.
Earlier in the day, party sources stated that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not appear before the ED for interrogation in connection with an excise policy case involving money laundering.

The AAP labelled the ED summons as ‘illegal’, claiming that the validity of the summons is now being litigated in court.

“ED itself has gone to court. Instead of sending summons again and again, ED should wait for the court’s decision,” a party source said.

On February 2, Kejriwal ignored the ED’s summons for the fifth time in connection with the money laundering investigation into irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22 case.
On February 17, Kejriwal appeared in Rouse Avenue Court via video conference following the ED’s complaint about his purported noncompliance with its summons.

Kejriwal, while appearing virtually, informed the court that he wished to attend the court proceedings in person, but was unable to do so due to the confidence motion and budget sessions.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra granted Kejriwal’s exemption plea on Saturday and scheduled his physical appearance in court for March 16, 2024.

The ED has filed a new complaint case under Sections 190 (1)(a) and 200 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, Section 174 of the Indian Penal Code, and Section 63 (4) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) for non-attendance in compliance of Section 50 of PMLA.

According to the ED, the agency intended to record Kejriwal’s statement in the case about policy formation, discussions held before it was finalized, and charges of bribery.

The ED alleged in its sixth charge sheet filed in the case on December 2, 2023, citing AAP leader Sanjay Singh and his aide Sarvesh Mishra, that the AAP used kickbacks worth Rs 45 crore generated under the scheme as part of their Goa assembly election campaign in 2022.

Kejriwal says- I’don’t know whether I’ll be in Jail or Free…” during a Roadshow in Madhya Pradesh

November 2, 2023, 7:01 pm

Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party national convener, opted to skip a summons by the Enforcement Directorate related to an alleged money laundering case connected to the excise policy scam. Instead, Kejriwal held a rally in Waidhan. During this event, he addressed the people of Madhya Pradesh, expressing concern about his legal situation on the day of the election results’ announcement and encouraging their support for the AAP.

The Delhi chief minister urged the people of Madhya Pradesh to vote for his party in the coming assembly polls and said that he was not sure whether he would be in jail or out when the results are declared but expected the people to show faith in AAP like they did in Delhi and Punjab.

“Just like the people of Delhi and Punjab voted for the AAP, the people of Madhya Pradesh will also do the same in the coming days. I don’t know whether I will be in jail or somewhere else on the day of counting, but everyone should say that Arvind Kejriwal came to Singrauli and we gave him a historic victory,” the AAP national convenor said while addressing a roadshow in Waidhan. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was also present at the roadshow.

In response to the ED summons, Kejriwal challenged the notice’s legitimacy, alleging political motives and demanding its retraction. He claimed that the summons was vague and strategically leaked to certain BJP leaders. Previously summoned by the CBI in connection with the case, Kejriwal wasn’t named as an accused in the First Information Report (FIR) lodged the previous year.

Madhya Pradesh is set to conduct elections on November 17, with the results expected on December 3, making it one of the five states holding elections this year.

Delhi: Kejriwal orders suspension of teachers, vice-principal in sexual assault case

August 29, 2023, 5:53 pm

Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister, has ordered the immediate suspension of two teachers and the vice principal of a Delhi government school where two boys were allegedly sexually molested by classmates in April of this year.

On Tuesday, Delhi Education Minister Atishi claimed Kejriwal has ordered disciplinary action against the guilty for failing to report the incident to the police.

In a letter to the Education Secretary, Atishi said, “It is Our responsibility to ensure all children are safe and secure in our schools.”

“And if any such instances of child sexual abuse are brought to light, then appropriate legal action has to be taken. We have to take all possible steps to ensure that such an instance is not repeated in our schools,” she wrote.

She went on to say that the tragedy should “cause us to reflect and take corrective action.” We must do everything possible to keep children safe and secure at all times.”
Atishi went on to say that Kejriwal has asked the Directorate of Education to guarantee that all principals and teachers receive thorough POCSO training.

Among the actions mandated by the chief minister are mandatory reporting of such instances, instruments for early identification of abuse, forms of abuse, the impact of abuse on children, and corrective measures enabling capacity building of instructors to support such kids.

“Delhi people have started feeling very insecure,” exclaims Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on RK Puram double murder case

June 18, 2023, 11:22 am

After a double murder event was reported in the RK Puram neighbourhood of Delhi early on Sunday, Arvind Kejriwal, the chief minister of Delhi, questioned the city’s law and order condition.
According to authorities, two women were shot and killed early on Sunday morning in the vicinity of Delhi’s R.K. Puram police station by unknown assailants. The families of the two women are in our thoughts. May God grant them eternal peace. The citizens of Delhi have begun to feel extremely uneasy. The people responsible for Delhi’s law and order are conspiring to capture the entire Delhi government, instead of fixing the law and order. Today, if Delhi’s law and order were under the AAP government instead of LG, then Delhi would have been safest,” Kejriwal said in a tweet (roughly translated from Hindi)
According to Manoj C, Deputy Commissioner of Police South West Delhi, police had received a call at 4:40 am in RK Puram police station stating that some people had shot the caller’s sisters at Ambedkar Basti.
Responding to the call, a police team reached the spot wherein it was found that two ladies Pinky (30) and Jyoti (29) were shot and were shifted to SJ hospital but they succumbed to injuries.
Prima facie it seems that shooters were looking for the victim’s brother and the reason behind the shooting seems to be some money settlement issue, however, the exact cause will be ascertained only after a prolonged investigation, said the police official.
A case has been registered under the relevant section and police are looking for the arrest of the accused.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to attend Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha’s engagement- Here’s what we know

May 13, 2023, 4:19 pm

Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha are getting engaged today i.e. May 13, 2023, at Kapurthala Hosue in New Delhi. The venue details were out yesterday, and the videos are doing rounds on the internet. According to reports, they are planning to get engaged in an intimate ceremony with approximately 150 guests invited to the event.

However, the Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal will also attend Raghav Chadha and Parineeti Chopra’s engagement ceremony. According to fresh reports, the gorgeous duo will get engaged as per Sikh rituals at 5 pm today.

Besides, Parineeti Chopra’s darling sister Priyanka Chopra will also attend the engagement ceremony. The pictures of the Citadel star from the airport also went viral on social media platforms. But, her husband, Nick Joans will not be present at the engagement bash.

This is a developing copy.