Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has informed Lieutenant Governor (L-G) V K Saxena that Education Minister Atishi Marlena will take over the role of flag hoisting on 15 August, marking Independence Day.
This decision comes as CM Kejriwal remains incarcerated in Tihar Jail due to corruption and money laundering charges related to the Delhi excise policy scandal.
In a letter addressed to L-G Saxena, Kejriwal confirmed, “Minister Atishi will hoist the flag on August 15 in my place.”
Traditionally, the Chief Minister performs this ceremonial duty at the annual Independence Day event held at Chhatrasal Stadium.
However, with Kejriwal currently in detention, he has delegated this responsibility to Atishi.
Kejriwal’s imprisonment stems from his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) concerning the alleged excise policy scam.
The Delhi High Court recently reserved its judgment on a bail application submitted by Kejriwal, while the CBI has filed a charge sheet against him and other accused individuals before a special court in Delhi.
The High Court upheld the legality of Kejriwal’s arrest, citing concerns over possible witness tampering.
In addition, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a prosecution complaint in the money laundering case, listing Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as defendants.
On 12 July, the Supreme Court granted Kejriwal interim bail for the money laundering charges, but his release was not possible due to his ongoing CBI arrest.
Currently, the Delhi High Court has extended Kejriwal’s judicial custody until 9 August in the CBI case and until 13 August in the money laundering case.
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