Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has reserved its judgement on the bail plea filed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is seeking relief from judicial custody and challenging his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with an alleged scam related to the now-scrapped Delhi liquor policy. The decision is expected to be announced on Tuesday.
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan concluded the hearing of arguments for and against Kejriwal’s bail plea on Thursday. “Order reserved. Thank you. See you on Tuesday,” stated Justice Surya Kant as the session wrapped up.
Kejriwal has already been granted bail in a related case filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) concerning the same alleged liquor policy scam. Despite this, he remains in judicial custody following his arrest by the CBI.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court questioned the CBI’s decision to arrest Kejriwal while he was already in judicial custody for the ED case. The bench noted, “When you are in custody… if you are arresting him again, then you need the permission of the court. There is something in the criminal procedure code.”
Arguments Presented in Court
Representing Arvind Kejriwal, senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi argued that all other co-accused in the case, including Manish Sisodia, Vijay Nair, and K Kavitha, have already been released on bail. Singhvi emphasized the inconsistency in Kejriwal’s continued detention compared to his co-accused.
On behalf of the CBI, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju raised objections to Kejriwal’s bail plea. Raju argued that Kejriwal’s case should not be considered on par with that of his co-accused in the liquor policy case. He also pointed out that Kejriwal bypassed the Sessions Court and directly approached the High Court seeking relief, which he argued was procedurally incorrect.
The Supreme Court’s upcoming decision will determine whether Kejriwal will be granted bail or remain in custody while the investigation continues.
