NEW DELHI, India (January 3, 2024) – Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has once again avoided appearing before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the ongoing probe into the Delhi excise policy case, marking the third time he has skipped their summons. This move has fueled political tensions in the capital city, with accusations of political vendetta flying from both sides.
Kejriwal was initially summoned for questioning on November 2nd, followed by a second summons on December 21st. Both times, he cited pressing government work and ongoing assembly sessions as reasons for not appearing. Today, despite a third summons, the Chief Minister was again absent, prompting the ED to issue a fresh notice demanding his presence on January 12th.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Kejriwal, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and claims the ED investigation is politically motivated. They allege that the BJP-led central government is using the agency to target and harass opposition leaders. AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj stated, “This is nothing but a witch hunt aimed at silencing Chief Minister Kejriwal and his successful work in Delhi.”
Meanwhile, the BJP has countered these accusations, calling Kejriwal’s refusal to appear before the ED “blatant disrespect for the law.” Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat commented, “If he has nothing to hide, why is he afraid to face the investigation? This only raises suspicion and strengthens the case against him.”
The Delhi excise policy case, scrapped by the AAP government in July 2023, is under investigation for alleged irregularities in the tendering process and favoritism shown to certain players. While no charges have been framed against Kejriwal yet, the ED is reportedly keen to question him on his decision-making in the policy formulation.
Kejriwal’s repeated absence from the ED’s summons is likely to escalate the political battle between the AAP and BJP. As the legal proceedings unfold, the public remains divided, with some backing the Chief Minister’s claims of political vendetta while others raise concerns about potential evasion of accountability.
Key Points:
Kejriwal skips ED summons for the third time in Delhi excise policy case.
AAP alleges political vendetta, BJP demands cooperation with investigation.
Fresh ED summons issued, demanding Kejriwal’s presence on January 12th.
Political tensions escalate in Delhi, public opinion divided
