Legal – Delhi High Court Seeks Response from Kejriwal in ED Appeal Case
Legal – The Delhi High Court has initiated fresh proceedings after the Enforcement Directorate challenged a lower court decision that cleared former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in cases linked to alleged non-compliance with summons.
The court on Wednesday formally asked Kejriwal to respond to the appeal filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which has questioned his acquittal in two separate matters related to the ongoing liquor policy investigation. The development marks another step in a series of legal battles surrounding the high-profile case.
High Court Issues Notice to Kejriwal
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma directed Kejriwal to submit his reply by April 29, which has been fixed as the next date of hearing. The ED had approached the High Court earlier this week, seeking to overturn the trial court’s order that dismissed the cases against the former chief minister.
According to the agency, Kejriwal failed to comply with multiple summons issued during the investigation. The ED has argued that this amounted to a deliberate attempt to avoid participation in the inquiry process.
ED Questions Trial Court’s Findings
In its appeal, the ED has contended that the trial court did not properly assess the circumstances under which the summons were allegedly ignored. The agency maintains that Kejriwal’s absence from questioning was intentional and that the reasons provided for not attending were without merit.
The lower court, however, had ruled on January 22 that there was insufficient evidence to establish that Kejriwal had knowingly disobeyed the summons. On this basis, the cases were dismissed, a decision now under scrutiny in the High Court.
Arguments Over “Wilful Non-Compliance”
The ED’s case centers on the claim of “wilful non-compliance,” asserting that repeated notices were not honored despite clear legal obligations. It has also alleged that objections raised by Kejriwal were used strategically to delay or avoid the investigation.
On the other hand, the trial court had emphasized the need for clear proof of intent before holding an individual accountable for failing to respond to summons. This difference in interpretation now forms the core issue before the High Court.
Bail Status and Supreme Court Proceedings
Kejriwal is currently out on interim bail in connection with a money laundering case linked to the same policy matter. The Supreme Court has taken up broader legal questions regarding the necessity of arrest under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), referring the issue to a larger bench for detailed examination.
This aspect of the case is being closely watched, as it may have implications for how investigative agencies exercise their powers in similar cases.
Parallel Developments in CBI Case
In a separate but related development, a trial court had earlier discharged Kejriwal, former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, and several others in a corruption case registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). That decision, delivered on February 27, is also under challenge.
The CBI’s plea against the discharge is currently pending before the High Court, adding another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings surrounding the liquor policy issue.
Court Emphasizes Rule of Law
While dealing with the matter, the court underlined that its role is not to align with any prevailing narrative or outcome but to ensure that legal principles are upheld. The observation reflects the judiciary’s focus on maintaining impartiality amid intense public and political scrutiny.
As the case progresses, the High Court’s examination of both factual and legal aspects is expected to play a significant role in determining the next course of action.