Delhi court made the decision to prolong Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody until April 23 regarding a money laundering case associated with an alleged excise policy scandal under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
The leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) appeared before Special Judge Kaveri Baweja of the Rouse Avenue Court following the expiration of his previous 14-day judicial custody term. Consequently, both CM Kejriwal's and co-accused BRS leader K. Kavitha's judicial custody has been extended until April 23 in connection with the ED's inquiry.
Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court responded to CM Kejriwal's petition challenging his apprehension and subsequent remand by the ED in the same case, setting the next hearing for April 29.
In April, during the plea for CM Kejriwal's judicial custody, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju, representing the ED, highlighted the agency's intention to possibly request further custody of the AAP leader in the future.
"... in view of the ruling of the Hon’ble Apex Court in case V. Senthil Balaji Vs. State....., the ED reserves its right to seek further custody remand of the accused," noted the court.
Raju asserted that the accused had been uncooperative and had withheld vital information during questioning.
He outlined two primary reasons for seeking judicial custody: first, the accused's significant influence and potential to tamper with evidence or influence witnesses if released, potentially impeding ongoing investigations; and second, the complexity of economic crimes necessitating comprehensive investigation to uncover additional proceeds of crime and identify other involved individuals.
CM Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21 following a two-hour interrogation at his official residence in Delhi.
The ED has labeled CM Kejriwal as the "central figure and primary conspirator" in the alleged excise scam, purportedly in collaboration with other ministers of the Delhi government, AAP leaders, and other individuals.
His next virtual appearance is scheduled for April 23.
