Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal Arrested in Excise ‘Scam’ Case: CBI Seeks Custody for Interrogation

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) formally arrested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on June 26 in connection with the excise ‘scam’ case. The arrest followed the CBI seeking permission from a special court in Delhi to detain Kejriwal, who was subsequently produced before Special Judge Amitabh Rawat for further proceedings.The excise case revolves around allegations of corruption and money laundering related to the formulation and implementation of the Delhi government’s now-defunct excise policy for 2021-22. The policy, introduced in November 2021, aimed to overhaul liquor retail practices in the capital, focusing on revenue maximization, combating counterfeit alcohol sales, and improving consumer experience. However, the policy faced significant opposition and accusations of procedural irregularities, leading to its cancellation on August 1, 2022.The case gained momentum after Lt Governor V.K. Saxena recommended a CBI investigation into alleged irregularities, prompting the agency to file an FIR on August 17, 2022. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) subsequently took cognizance of the CBI’s findings and initiated its probe on August 22, 2022.Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation, with the CBI seeking custody to conduct further interrogation into the matter. The proceedings underscore the complexities surrounding governance and policy implementation in India’s political landscape, particularly concerning allegations of corruption and transparency.