In a high-stakes legal battle unfolding in the courtrooms of Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has launched a formidable challenge against the summonses issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). As the legal drama intensifies, the High Court has posed pointed questions, demanding clarity on Kejriwal’s stance regarding his non-appearance before the enforcement agency.
Represented by Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Kejriwal defended his actions, asserting that he has responded to each summons with detailed replies. Singhvi argued vehemently that the summonses lacked legal standing, branding them as arbitrary and illegal. Kejriwal’s legal team further questioned the basis upon which he was being summoned – as a mere witness or as a potential accused.
The courtroom proceedings witnessed a tense exchange as the court directed a direct query at Kejriwal: “If you are innocent, why are you avoiding the summons?” This question underscores the central dilemma of the case, raising doubts about Kejriwal’s reluctance to cooperate with the investigative process.
The legal tug-of-war also saw arguments over the issue of protection from arrest. Kejriwal’s camp sought assurances that no coercive action would be taken upon his appearance before the ED. However, the court refrained from granting any immediate relief, instead opting to seek responses from both Kejriwal and the ED on the broader legal aspects raised in the petition.
Meanwhile, the political arena reverberated with reactions, with opposition parties accusing the central government of orchestrating a vendetta through investigative agencies. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has consistently alleged that the summonses are part of a larger scheme aimed at targeting Kejriwal and his administration.
The legal tussle underscores the high stakes involved, not only for Kejriwal personally but also for the political landscape in Delhi. With the court now awaiting responses from all concerned parties, the case is poised to continue its trajectory through the corridors of justice, with implications that extend far beyond the confines of this singular legal battle.