Delhi CM Kejriwal Summoned by ED in Money Laundering Case Amid Assembly Session

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for the seventh time about a money laundering case linked to alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22. The summons, issued for February 26, comes amidst Kejriwal’s virtual court appearance, where he cited his inability to appear physically due to ongoing commitments with the Budget session of the Delhi Assembly and a confidence motion in the House. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader has previously missed six summons, labeling them as “illegal and politically motivated.”

The ED’s persistence in summoning Kejriwal has sparked controversy, with senior AAP leader Atishi accusing the BJP-led central government of using the federal agency to intimidate the Delhi Chief Minister. The controversy deepens as the ED moves to question Kejriwal regarding alleged bribes received by AAP and others involved in the excise policy, purportedly used for election campaigns. The policy, aimed at revitalizing Delhi’s liquor business, has been scrapped following recommendations for a CBI probe into its alleged irregularities.

In defense, the AAP has denounced the summons as unlawful, questioning the ED’s refusal to address legal queries raised by Kejriwal. The political tussle escalates as AAP links the ED’s actions to a retaliatory move by the BJP following AAP’s victory in the Chandigarh mayoral election. With the court granting Kejriwal exemption from personal appearance until March 16, the saga adds another layer of tension between the AAP and the central government amidst critical legislative sessions.

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