After ED, CBI takes Kejriwal into custody; CM says he is innocent

SC allows Kejriwal to withdraw plea; AAP says CBI caught red-handed lying in court

- NARESH BISWANI

In a series of mounting troubles for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the CBI arrested the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief on Wednesday in connection with a corruption case linked to an alleged excise scam. Kejriwal, already in judicial custody due to an ED money laundering case related to the same scam, was subsequently sent to three days’ custody by a Delhi court.

During the hearing, Kejriwal maintained his innocence and personally addressed the court, denying allegations that he had blamed his former deputy Manish Sisodia for the liquor policy scandal, of which both are accused. He accused the CBI of sensationalising the issue, while the agency countered with accusations of baseless allegations.

The order was issued by Judge Amitabh Rawat of the Rouse Avenue Court after detailed hearings with both Kejriwal and the CBI.

Kejriwal’s formal arrest by the CBI earlier on Wednesday came after Judge Rawat refused to interfere with the ongoing investigation. The CBI, seeking five days of custody, cited the need for further interrogation regarding the alleged irregularities in the 2021–22 Delhi excise policy. Kejriwal was questioned by the CBI in Tihar jail on Tuesday.