Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Released from Tihar Jail After 39 Days
New Delhi, 10th May 2024: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was released from Tihar Jail on Friday evening, marking the end of his 39-day judicial custody. The Supreme Court had granted him interim bail until June 1, with a directive to surrender under any circumstances on June 2.
Addressing supporters upon his release, Kejriwal emphasized the need to unite against what he termed a “dictatorship.” He stated, “It is a request to you that we all have to come together and save the country from dictatorship. I am fighting with my body, mind, and money against dictatorship.” He further announced plans to seek blessings at Hanuman ji temple in Connaught Place the next morning, followed by a press conference at the party office at 1 pm.
Kejriwal had been in judicial custody since April 1 in connection with the Delhi Liquor Policy case, following an 11-day stint in ED custody. The court’s verdict, delivered in one line at 2 pm, came after his lawyer’s request for release until June 5 was rejected.
The Supreme Court, granting interim bail, reasoned that the elapsed 22 days would not significantly affect the case. Justice Sanjeev Khanna noted, “ED registered the case in August 2022. He was arrested in March (2024). Where were they for one and a half years? The arrest could have happened later or earlier. 22 days here or there should not make any difference.”
However, the ED presented two arguments against the interim bail, contending that election campaigning could not be grounds for bail and that granting bail would set a wrong precedent.
Looking ahead, the Supreme Court stated that the debate on Kejriwal’s petition against the arrest would continue the following week, aiming to deliver a verdict before the summer holidays commencing May 20. The conditions of Kejriwal’s interim bail were likened to those imposed on AAP leader Sanjay Singh, who was granted bail in the same case on April 1. These conditions include refraining from making statements related to the excise policy case, surrendering the passport, and informing the investigating agency of any travel outside Delhi, along with sharing live location details.
