Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning on November 2 in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. The ED is investigating allegations of money laundering in the case.
Kejriwal's summons comes weeks after the Supreme Court denied bail to his former deputy, Manish Sisodia, in the same case. Sisodia has been in jail since March.
The Delhi excise policy case relates to the now-scrapped excise policy of the Delhi government. The policy was introduced in November 2021 and was aimed at simplifying the liquor licensing process and increasing government revenue. However, the policy was withdrawn in July this year after the ED launched its investigation.
The ED has alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy was formulated in a manner that benefited certain liquor companies. The agency has also alleged that kickbacks were paid to government officials in the process of awarding liquor licenses.
Kejriwal has denied any wrongdoing in the case. He has accused the BJP-led central government of using the ED and other agencies to target his party and government.
The ED summons to Kejriwal is likely to further escalate tensions between the Delhi government and the central government. The AAP has accused the BJP of trying to topple the Delhi government by using central agencies. The BJP has denied the allegations.
The Delhi excise policy case is being closely watched by political circles. The outcome of the case could have a significant impact on the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
