ED Moves Court as Kejriwal Skips Summons Five Times in Money Laundering Probe

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its pursuit of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with a money laundering case linked to the city’s liquor excise policy for 2021-22. The agency approached a Delhi court, alleging Kejriwal’s failure to comply with summons issued to him. The matter was heard at the Rouse Avenue court, with further submissions slated for February 7.

This development compounds Kejriwal’s legal woes, as both the Delhi crime branch and the ED are now scrutinizing him in distinct cases. The ED has persistently summoned Kejriwal regarding the liquor probe since last year. Despite five summonses, issued on November 2, December 21, January 3, January 19, and February 2, Kejriwal has consistently refused to participate, citing the summons as illegal.

In parallel, the Delhi crime branch has also targeted Kejriwal, particularly following his allegations of BJP’s involvement in attempting to poach seven AAP MLAs. Officers from the crime branch visited Kejriwal’s residence on both Friday and Saturday to serve him a notice personally. However, a confrontational scene unfolded on Saturday morning when AAP leaders questioned the insistence on delivering the notice solely to the CM. Eventually, the notice was accepted by officials, mandating Kejriwal to respond within three days, disclosing the names of the allegedly approached MLAs.

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Reacting to the situation, Kejriwal expressed sympathy for the crime branch officers, emphasizing their duty to combat crime rather than participate in political theatrics. He criticized the demand to disclose MLA names, insinuating political motivations behind such actions and questioning the integrity of those making the request.

Kejriwal’s ongoing legal battles underscore a tense political climate in Delhi, where accusations and investigations intersect, complicating governance and accountability.