Introduction:

A Delhi Court has issued summons to a prominent political figure, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, in connection with the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) money laundering case related to an alleged liquor policy scam. The court, led by Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra, directed Kejriwal to appear on February 17, taking cognizance of the ED’s complaint regarding non-compliance with previously issued summons.

Arguments:

The ED contends that Arvind Kejriwal failed to adhere to multiple summons over the last four months, constituting a prima facie offence under Section 174 of the Indian Penal Code. Kejriwal, however, asserts that the summons are illegal, having skipped them, prompting the ED to file a fresh complaint case. The agency alleges a conspiracy behind the excise policy, implicating Kejriwal and other leaders, including Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, who are currently in judicial custody.

Court’s Judgement:

The court, acknowledging Kejriwal’s non-compliance, issues summons under Section 174 of the IPC for February 17, 2024. It deems the ED’s complaint sufficient for proceeding under Section 204 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The court highlights Kejriwal’s legal obligation to attend ED summons, considering the replies sent to the official e-mail address. The case unfolds against the backdrop of a complex conspiracy involving the excise policy and alleged extraordinary profit margins to certain private companies.