Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal's absence from the Enforcement Directorate (ED)'s summons regarding the alleged excise policy case has sparked controversy, with Kejriwal branding the agency's actions as "illegal and politically motivated."
In response to the summons, Kejriwal, who embarked on a 10-day Vipassana Meditation Course from December 19 to 30, conveyed his readiness to adhere to legally valid summons in his six-page reply to the ED.
Expressing dismay over the timing of the summons, Kejriwal highlighted the perceived lack of objectivity in the agency's approach. He criticized the summons' issuance just before his pre-announced departure, interpreting it as a deliberate move aimed at creating sensational news in the lead-up to the impending parliamentary elections.
Kejriwal raised concerns about the summons' ambiguity regarding his role—whether as a witness, suspect, Delhi's Chief Minister, or AAP's national convenor. He also criticized the lack of case details or reasons provided by the ED, deeming the summons a vague and intrusive inquiry.
Asserting his compliance with legal summons, Kejriwal emphasized that the ED's summons did not align with legal requirements and appeared to intend harassment rather than fair investigation.
Moreover, Kejriwal stated legal advice suggesting that a political party doesn't fall within the ambit of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, adding weight to his claim that the summons seemed driven by external motives.
Highlighting the perceived political undercurrents and potential intentions to stifle opposition voices, Kejriwal requested the immediate withdrawal of the summons, citing fairness as the fundamental principle.
This instance adds to the ongoing controversy surrounding the case, with Kejriwal's previous absence from an ED summons and the subsequent arrest of former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh in connection with the case contributing to the heated debate.
(With Agency Inputs)
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