New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has approached the Supreme Court seeking an extension of his interim bail in relation to the Delhi liquor policy case. Mr Kejriwal emphasized the importance of medical examinations, including a PET-CT scan, due to his significant weight loss of 7 kg and elevated ketone levels, citing serious health concerns.
Initially, the Supreme Court had granted Mr Kejriwal interim bail until June 1 to enable his participation in the Lok Sabha election campaign. However, as per the court’s ruling, he is required to surrender and return to Tihar Jail on June 2.
Preliminary examinations have already been conducted by the medical team at Max Hospital. The Chief Minister’s legal counsel argued that these tests are crucial for his well-being and requested the court to consider granting an extension to complete the necessary medical investigations.
The interim bail provided to Mr Kejriwal has sparked controversy, with BJP leaders alleging that he received preferential treatment from the Supreme Court. Nevertheless, the justices involved in granting the bail have firmly stated that no exceptions were made in Mr Kejriwal’s favor.
The ongoing investigation revolves around alleged irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22).
The excise policy, aimed at revamping the liquor business in the national capital, pledged a more contemporary shopping experience with discounts and promotions. Nevertheless, the investigation into alleged irregularities by Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena led to the policy being revoked. The AAP has accused Mr. Saxena’s predecessor, Anil Baijal, of making last-minute alterations that had a negative impact on the policy’s revenue projections.
AAP leader and former deputy chief minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia is currently in judicial custody in connection with the case. Mr. Sisodia, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, was apprehended by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on February 26 last year, while party leader Sanjay Singh, a Rajya Sabha member, was arrested by the ED on October 5 and was granted bail in April this year.