Two months and several days subsequent to his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in relation with a controversial liquor policy, the Supreme Court has today granted an interim bail until June 1 to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
He can however contest in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections but surrender on June 2 which is two days before the results will be out.
This could be a big morale booster for his party as he may be released from jail as early as Friday evening. AAP’s political allies including Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), Trinamool Congress etc hailed Friday’s court verdict.
In court, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that there was no precedent of anyone being released for campaigning. However, while granting interim bail to Kejriwal, Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta noted that the liquor policy case was registered in August 2022 and the Delhi chief minister was arrested almost a year and a half later in March 2024.
During May 3 proceedings, the bench had indicated at giving relief to Kejriwal but pointed out that he cannot perform his duties as CM while on bail.
ED counsel said Kejriwal would not extend his bail or take over CM office but campaign for his party as per terms set by Supreme Court. Detailed orders will be announced tonight.
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