“My life is dedicated to the country”: Kejriwal Vows to Serve Nation even after Arrest; ED Seeks 10-Day Remand for him over Alleged Liquor Policy Scam

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday affirmed his unwavering dedication to the country, declaring that his commitment remains steadfast whether he is in jail or free. Kejriwal's statement came during his appearance in the Rouse Avenue Court, where the Enforcement Directorate (ED) sought a 10-day remand following his arrest for alleged involvement in irregularities related to the now-defunct 2021-22 Delhi excise policy. The AAP Chief was arrested last on Thursday night; hours after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea for interim protection.

“Whether inside or outside, my life is dedicated to the country,” asserted Arvind Kejriwla while he was being presented before Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Friday.

During the court proceedings, the ED stated that Kejriwal is the central figure and primary conspirator in the alleged Delhi liquor policy scam. Seeking a 10-day remand, the agency alleged Kejriwal's direct involvement in formulating the policy to facilitate kickbacks. Specific allegations included demands for kickbacks from liquor barons and collaboration with middlemen to influence policy decisions, further implicating the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the misuse of funds for political campaigns.

The ED underscored various instances of alleged wrongdoing, including financial transactions and meetings between Kejriwal and key figures involved in the scandal. Notably, the agency asserted that proceeds from illicit activities were utilized for political campaigns, highlighting a purported nexus between corruption and electoral processes. In addition, the Enforcement Directorate claimed to possess corroborative evidence supporting their allegations.

In the aftermath of Kejriwal’s arrest, protests erupted in several parts of the National capital. Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj and senior AAP leader Atishi were detained by the police. Bharadwaj stated that Kejriwal's family, including his ailing mother, had been placed under house arrest, alleging a crackdown on peaceful demonstrations. Despite these challenges, Bharadwaj affirmed the resolve of the people to continue their protests against perceived injustices, emphasizing that the spirit of revolution cannot be quashed.

Arvind Kejriwal spent the night after his arrest in the Enforcement Directorate’s custody, and withdrew his petition challenging the arrest from the Supreme Court and opted to pursue legal recourse through lower courts instead. As he was brought to the court amidst a gathering crowd, Kejriwal reiterated his commitment to serving the nation, irrespective of his incarceration status. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, challenged the necessity of his arrest, arguing against further custodial custody based on the ED's purported need to trace money trails. Singhvi emphasized the need for substantial evidence to justify continued detention.

The AAP Chief was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on Thursday in connection with the alleged excise policy scam. Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest stirred a massive political uproar ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Kejriwal's arrest marks the first time a serving Indian chief minister has been arrested. However, the Aam Admi Party has stated that Kejriwal will continue to retain his post.​