India has firmly rejected recent statements from the US State Department regarding the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, labeling them as "unwarranted." Emphasizing the nation's commitment to its independent and robust democratic institutions, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) asserted its determination to safeguard them against any undue external influence.
Addressing reporters during the weekly press briefing, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal delivered a statement in response to inquiries concerning Washington's comments on the arrest and the freezing of Congress party bank accounts. He expressed strong objection to any external criticism of India's electoral and legal processes, deeming it wholly unacceptable.
Jaiswal revealed that India had formally conveyed its protest to a senior official from the US embassy regarding the State Department's remarks. He reiterated that such comments were uncalled for and underscored India's displeasure with them.
India's stance was further reinforced through the summoning of Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gloria Berbena on Wednesday, where a vigorous protest was lodged against Washington's remarks on Kejriwal's arrest.
The MEA spokesperson reiterated that India's legal proceedings strictly adhere to the principles of the rule of law, emphasizing that fellow democracies should readily acknowledge this. India takes pride in its independent democratic institutions and remains steadfast in shielding them from external interference.
Jaiswal stressed the importance of mutual respect and understanding in international relations, asserting that states must uphold the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. He concluded by reiterating India's position on the matter, emphasizing the importance of respecting each other's sovereignty.
Earlier, the US State Department had emphasized its support for fair, transparent, and timely legal processes, asserting that there should be no objection to such principles. The department continues to monitor developments closely, including the arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.
This diplomatic exchange follows similar protests lodged by India against remarks made by the German Foreign Ministry regarding Kejriwal's arrest. India views such statements as interference in its judicial processes and an affront to the independence of its judiciary.
Arvind Kejriwal's arrest stems from a money laundering case linked to the alleged corruption and money laundering associated with the formulation and execution of the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22, which was subsequently revoked.
