Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued a fresh notice to AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal in connection with pleas filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which challenged his acquittal in two cases related to non-appearance despite summonses in the excise policy matter.
Fresh Notice After Service Failure
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma observed that the earlier notice had not been successfully served to Kejriwal. The court said no one had appeared on his behalf after the previous notice and fixed the next hearing for July 22.
ED Challenges Trial Court Relief
The ED argued that the trial court made a serious error by acquitting Kejriwal despite summonses being duly issued and received. According to the agency, he deliberately ignored repeated notices and created excuses to avoid joining the investigation.
Trial Court Had Cited Lack of Proof
In its January 22 order, the trial court said the ED failed to establish intentional disobedience. It also held that service of summons through email and the legal process followed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act were not properly proven.
Separate CBI Case Also Pending
Apart from the ED matter, a separate CBI plea challenging the discharge of Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and others in the liquor policy case is also pending before the High Court.
Interim Bail Continues
Kejriwal is currently on interim bail in the money laundering case. The Supreme Court has referred key questions regarding the legality and necessity of arrest under the PMLA to a larger bench.
