Delhi HC set to decide on Arvind Kejriwal's plea against ED arrest today

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal faced significant developments recently, including his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 due to alleged involvement in a now-defunct excise policy case. His judicial custody was extended till April 15 by a trial court on April 1.

Key events summarized:

1. Punjab CM's viisit:

 - Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is expected to visit Kejriwal in Tihar jail this week, according to officials. This visit follows approval from Kejriwal himself and signifies solidarity within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leadership.

2. AAP's Campaign response:

 - AAP launched a new campaign titled "Jail Ka Jawab Vote Se" (Responding to Jail with a Vote) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This initiative aims to garner support in light of Kejriwal's arrest, alleging it to be a politically motivated move to suppress the party.

ALSO READ: Mehbooba Mufti to contest Lok Sabha Polls from Anantnag-Rajouri, goes head-to-head against Ghulam Nabi Azad

Recent developments:

- Delhi HC hearing:

 The Delhi High Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict today on Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest by the ED. Kejriwal contends that his arrest, amid the excise policy case, undermines democratic principles and election fairness.

- Assembly allegations:

  AAP legislators in the Delhi Assembly accused the BJP of attempting to impose President's Rule in Delhi, alleging coercion tactics to force Kejriwal's resignation post-arrest. They refuted claims suggesting Kejriwal's incapability to govern while incarcerated.

ALSO READ: Trinamool Congress leaders detained during peaceful protest

- ED interrogations:

The ED questioned Kejriwal's personal assistant, Bibhav Kumar, and AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak regarding alleged money laundering related to discrepancies in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. These actions follow Kejriwal's arrest and signify ongoing investigations.

- Political assertions:

  AAP leader Atishi claimed that if Kejriwal were to join the BJP, he would be released promptly, suggesting political motives behind his arrest. She also alleged that ED was targeting AAP members post-arrest.

The developments surrounding Kejriwal's arrest and subsequent legal proceedings underscore heightened political tensions and AAP's efforts to mobilize support amid the ongoing controversies.