New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a seventh summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning in connection with a money laundering probe related to the excise policy case. Kejriwal has been asked to appear before the agency on February 26, following his failure to comply with the sixth consecutive summons issued earlier.
The ED’s summons come after Arvind Kejriwal skipped multiple summonses related to the excise policy case, which he has deemed “illegal.” Despite the agency’s repeated requests, the Chief Minister has maintained that the legality of the summons is under judicial scrutiny, urging the ED to await the court’s directives instead of persistently issuing summons.
“ED itself has gone to court. Instead of sending summons again and again, ED should wait for the court’s decision,” remarked an AAP source in response to the agency’s actions.
In response to Arvind Kejriwal’s continued non-compliance, the ED sought intervention from a city court. The court, while acknowledging the ED’s complaint, granted an exemption to Kejriwal from appearing in person for the day.
The excise policy case, embroiling Arvind Kejriwal in a money laundering probe, underscores the ongoing legal scrutiny surrounding government policies and financial transactions. As the investigation unfolds, the ED seeks to ascertain any potential irregularities and enforce accountability within the regulatory framework.
Kejriwal’s persistent defiance of the ED’s summonses reflects broader tensions between political authorities and law enforcement agencies, highlighting the complex interplay between governance, legality, and accountability in the Indian administrative landscape. As the legal proceedings continue, the ED remains committed to pursuing its investigation in accordance with due process and legal protocols.
Dhairya Saraswat