Supreme Court Rejects ED’s Plea Against Arvind Kejriwal’s Campaign Speech, Finds No Violation of Bail Conditions

The Supreme Court has dismissed the Enforcement Directorate’s plea for action against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, asserting that his recent campaign speech did not contravene his bail terms. In the speech, Kejriwal purportedly stated, “… if you vote for AAP, I won’t have to go back to jail,” prompting objections from the ED.

However, the apex court reasoned that Kejriwal’s remarks constituted his personal opinion rather than a violation of his bail conditions. The court emphasized that its previous order regarding Kejriwal’s return to jail on June 2 remained unchanged, and it would adhere to the rule of law.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that Kejriwal’s statement during the campaign amounted to a clear breach of the court’s conditions. In response, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, pointed out similar statements made by senior union ministers against his client.

Kejriwal’s remarks during the campaign included expressions of concern about being imprisoned again if the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance won the 2024 Lok Sabha election. He also alleged mistreatment during his previous incarceration.

Despite the ED’s objections, the Supreme Court refused to revoke Kejriwal’s bail or order his return to jail. The court reiterated its previous stance that Kejriwal, as a sitting Chief Minister, could campaign for his party without being considered a habitual offender.

Kejriwal had been arrested in March over his alleged involvement in a liquor policy scam but was granted bail by the Supreme Court. The AAP leader has consistently denied the charges, attributing them to political motives ahead of elections.

The court’s decision underscores its commitment to upholding the principles of law and justice while allowing political leaders to exercise their democratic rights within the bounds of legal constraints.

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