Delhi Excise Policy PMLA Case: Rs 100 Crore Bribe Allegation and Bail Plea
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Delhi Excise Policy PMLA Case: Rs 100 Crore Bribe
Allegation and Bail Plea
The controversy surrounding the Delhi Excise Policy continues to deepen as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposes the bail plea of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The ED has alleged a demand for a Rs 100 crore bribe, asserting the involvement of Kejriwal in money laundering activities.
Bribe Demand and Money Laundering:
The ED has established that a significant amount of money, totaling Rs 100 crore, was demanded as a bribe. This money, according to the ED, was funneled through hawala transactions, with Chanpreet Singh identified as the individual who facilitated these transactions. The ED claims that a substantial amount of this money was given to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in cash and was used to fund a luxurious 7-star hotel stay for Kejriwal.
Prosecution's Standpoint:
Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju, representing the ED, argued that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has shown Kejriwal’s direct involvement in demanding the bribe. Raju emphasized that despite Kejriwal not being listed as an accused in the charge sheets by the CBI, the ED’s case, built on the statements of three approvers and circumstantial evidence, firmly establishes his involvement in money laundering. The ASG pointed out that the timing of the arrest, which has been questioned by Kejriwal’s defense, is irrelevant if the offense is established.
Defense's Counterarguments:
Senior advocate Vikram Chaudhari, representing Kejriwal, argued that Kejriwal is not named as an accused in the CBI’s charges and has been granted interim bail by the Supreme Court. Chaudhari highlighted that the evidence presented by the ED is weak and based largely on statements from tainted individuals. He raised concerns about the timing of the arrest, suggesting it was politically motivated, given Kejriwal's significant political stature and the upcoming elections.
Court's Considerations:
Vacation Judge Nyay Bindu at the Rouse Avenue Court has scheduled the matter for further hearing. The judge acknowledged the high-profile nature of the case and emphasized the need for a swift decision. The court is examining whether the evidence against Kejriwal, which includes statements from approvers and circumstantial details, is sufficient to deny bail under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Legal Implications:
ASG Raju argued that under PMLA, bail can only be granted if there is a reason to believe that the accused is not guilty. The ED maintains that the evidence, though circumstantial, points towards Kejriwal’s involvement in money laundering and bribery, thus justifying his arrest and continued custody.
Broader Context and Implications
This case has significant political and legal ramifications. The allegations against a sitting Chief Minister, especially one as prominent as Arvind Kejriwal, underscore the complex interplay between politics and law enforcement in India. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching effects on the political landscape and the future of the AAP.
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