A Delhi Court on Thursday (Jun 20) granted bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the money laundering case connected to the alleged liquor policy scam on a bail bond of ₹1,00,000 ($1,195.74). Vacation Judge Nyay Bindu of Rouse Avenue Courts passed the order after reserving it earlier today.&nbsp;

After the announcement, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) requested that the signing of the bail bond be deferred by 48 hours so that the order may be challenged before the appellate court. But the judge refused to stay the order and the trial court added that the bail bond is to be produced before the duty judge on Friday.&nbsp;

The decision comes a day after Kejriwal's judicial custody was extended till July 3 by the Rouse Avenue Court.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-paper-leak-case-bihar-deputy-cm-claims-prime-suspect-had-links-with-tejashwi-yadavs-aide-733569">NEET paper leak case: Bihar Deputy CM claims prime suspect had links with Tejashwi Yadav's aide</a>&nbsp;

Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju, appearing for the ED, submitted that co-accused Chanpreet Singh received huge cash amounts from entrepreneurs and paid hotel bills for Kejriwal's stay. The counsel claimed that the investigation by ED is based on concrete evidence.&nbsp;

"Kejriwal says my phone is sacrosanct. Mai password nahi dunga. (I will not give my password). We had to resort to the phone of Vinod Chauhan. He is sitting quiet. Many times it has happened that accused says I will not... An adverse inference has to be drawn from the fact that Kejriwal has refused to give his password. This is a ground for refusing bail under ordinary bail law, forget section 45 PMLA for the time being," ASG said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, senior advocate Vikram Chaudhari appearing for Kejriwal, dismissed all the claims and again highlighted lack of evidence in the case. Chaudhari again asked why Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 and questioned&nbsp;whether or not ED was playing in the hands of some "political masters".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/big-blow-to-bihar-government-patna-hc-scraps-65-quota-for-backward-classes-733451">Big blow to Bihar government: Patna HC scraps 65% quota for backward classes</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Arvind Kejriwal's arrest&nbsp;</h2>

The Aam Admi Party (AAP) supremo was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.&nbsp;

He was released on bail for a brief period during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections and addressed several public gatherings while campaigning for AAP before going back to prison a couple of days before the counting of votes on June 4.&nbsp;

The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations have been levelled against the party, which AAP denies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A Delhi Court on Thursday (Jun 20) granted bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the money laundering case connected to the alleged liquor policy scam on a bail bond of ₹1,00,000 ($1,195.

A Delhi Court on Thursday (Jun 20) granted bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the money laundering case connected to the alleged liquor policy scam on a bail bond of ₹1,00,000 ($1,195.74). Vacation Judge Nyay Bindu of Rouse Avenue Courts passed the order after reserving it earlier today. After the announcement, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) requested that the signing of the bail bond be deferred by 48 hours so that the order may be challenged before the appellate court. But the judge refused to stay the order and the trial court added that the bail bond is to be produced before the duty judge on Friday. The decision comes a day after Kejriwal's judicial custody was extended till July 3 by the Rouse Avenue Court. Also read: NEET paper leak case: Bihar Deputy CM claims prime suspect had links with Tejashwi Yadav's aide Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju, appearing for the ED, submitted that co-accused Chanpreet Singh received huge cash amounts from entrepreneurs and paid hotel bills for Kejriwal's stay. The counsel claimed that the investigation by ED is based on concrete evidence. "Kejriwal says my phone is sacrosanct. Mai password nahi dunga. (I will not give my password). We had to resort to the phone of Vinod Chauhan. He is sitting quiet. Many times it has happened that accused says I will not... An adverse inference has to be drawn from the fact that Kejriwal has refused to give his password. This is a ground for refusing bail under ordinary bail law, forget section 45 PMLA for the time being," ASG said. Meanwhile, senior advocate Vikram Chaudhari appearing for Kejriwal, dismissed all the claims and again highlighted lack of evidence in the case. Chaudhari again asked why Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 and questioned whether or not ED was playing in the hands of some "political masters". Also read: Big blow to Bihar government: Patna HC scraps 65% quota for backward classes Arvind Kejriwal's arrest The Aam Admi Party (AAP) supremo was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. He was released on bail for a brief period during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections and addressed several public gatherings while campaigning for AAP before going back to prison a couple of days before the counting of votes on June 4. The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations have been levelled against the party, which AAP denies. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi court grants bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in excise policy case

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody was extended till July 3 on Wednesday (Jun 19) by the Rouse Avenue Court. For the first time, he moved court for regular bail. However, special Judge Niyay Bindu extended the custody. The court also said that it would give further orders on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Aam Admi Party (AAP) supremo was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.&nbsp;

He was released on bail for a brief period during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, and addressed several public gatherings while campaigning for AAP before going back to prison a couple of days before the counting of votes on June 4.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-should-be-in-parliament-i-want-her-to-be-there-says-robert-vadra-as-he-backs-wifes-wayanad-run-732922">'Priyanka should be in parliament, I want her to be there,' says Robert Vadra as he backs wife's Wayanad run</a>&nbsp;

The Delhi chief minister was produced before the court through video conference from Tihar Jail on the expiry of his judicial custody. The court also extended the judicial custody of Vinod Chauhan till July 3.&nbsp;

Representing the Enforcement Directorate, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju argued that Kejriwal had not been summoned as an accused in the case. He added that now a prosecution complaint has been filed and cognisance of the money laundering offence has been taken by the Special Court.

The probing agency told the court that it had evidence of Kejriwal demanding ₹100 crore (approx $12 million) as kickbacks in the now-withdrawn liquor policy. ASG Raju weighed in on Kejriwal's alleged role in the case, saying that he was liable in a personal capacity and also as the chief of AAP.&nbsp;

"He demanded a bribe of ₹100 crore, how can you say he is not prima facie guilty of the offence?," the ED asked.

The counsel appearing for Kejriwal opposed the ED's application seeking an extension of his judicial custody, saying there were no grounds justifying an extension of his custody.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-inaugurates-new-nalanda-university-campus-in-rajgir-bihar-733075">Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates new Nalanda University campus in Rajgir, Bihar</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India maintains close space ties with Russia

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<h2>Arvind Kejriwal's arrest&nbsp;</h2>

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by the ED in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.&nbsp;

The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021.

But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations have been levelled against the party, which AAP denies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody was extended till July 3 on Wednesday (Jun 19) by the Rouse Avenue Court. For the first time, he moved court for regular bail.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody was extended till July 3 on Wednesday (Jun 19) by the Rouse Avenue Court. For the first time, he moved court for regular bail. However, special Judge Niyay Bindu extended the custody. The court also said that it would give further orders on Thursday. The Aam Admi Party (AAP) supremo was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. He was released on bail for a brief period during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, and addressed several public gatherings while campaigning for AAP before going back to prison a couple of days before the counting of votes on June 4. Also read: 'Priyanka should be in parliament, I want her to be there,' says Robert Vadra as he backs wife's Wayanad run The Delhi chief minister was produced before the court through video conference from Tihar Jail on the expiry of his judicial custody. The court also extended the judicial custody of Vinod Chauhan till July 3. Representing the Enforcement Directorate, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju argued that Kejriwal had not been summoned as an accused in the case. He added that now a prosecution complaint has been filed and cognisance of the money laundering offence has been taken by the Special Court. The probing agency told the court that it had evidence of Kejriwal demanding ₹100 crore (approx $12 million) as kickbacks in the now-withdrawn liquor policy. ASG Raju weighed in on Kejriwal's alleged role in the case, saying that he was liable in a personal capacity and also as the chief of AAP. "He demanded a bribe of ₹100 crore, how can you say he is not prima facie guilty of the offence?," the ED asked. The counsel appearing for Kejriwal opposed the ED's application seeking an extension of his judicial custody, saying there were no grounds justifying an extension of his custody. Also read: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates new Nalanda University campus in Rajgir, Bihar Watch: India maintains close space ties with Russia × Arvind Kejriwal's arrest Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by the ED in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations have been levelled against the party, which AAP denies. (With inputs from agencies)

Excise Policy Case: Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody extended till July 3

When Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in the alleged excise policy scam on March 21, it sparked a wave of unifying condemnation across the ranks and file of India's Opposition parties banded together as 'INDIA' bloc to deny PM Modi a third term in power.&nbsp;

Ten days later, on March 31, 2024 — to purportedly 'save democracy' — the Opposition did a show of unity at Delhi's historic Ramlila Maidan, the same venue where over a decade ago, Kejriwal under the leadership of social activist Anna Hazare, had led an anti-corruption campaign against the then-ruling United Progressive Alliance government led by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh.&nbsp;

<img alt="Former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's spouse Kalpana Soren, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's spouse Sunita Kejriwal alongside top Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan during opposition 'INDIA' bloc's 'Save Democracy' rally on March 31, 2024 | ANI" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/INDIArally.png" />Former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's spouse Kalpana Soren, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's spouse Sunita Kejriwal alongside top Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan during opposition 'INDIA' bloc's 'Save Democracy' rally on March 31, 2024 | ANI

With Congress-led United Progressive Alliance of 2013 morphed into Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance ('INDIA') by 2024, in Ramlila Maidan,&nbsp;Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party stood with its avowed political foes of&nbsp;yesteryears.

With speaking time allotted to all Opposition leaders, Arvind Kejriwal's spouse Sunita also delivered an address. So did former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren's spouse Kalpana Soren.&nbsp;

The wave of unity sparked by Kejriwal's arrest as a show of alleged high-handedness of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government resonated across the Opposition parties all over India.&nbsp;

Over six weeks later (on May 10), as Arvind Kejriwal came out of Delhi's Tihar jail after a Supreme Court verdict that allowed him to campaign in elections until June 2, 2024, it came&nbsp;as relieving surprise to the Opposition.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-summary-what-happened-highlights-election-top-points-narendra-modi-bjp-seats-updates-727903">Ayodhya to Kashmir to Kanyakumari: Key milestones of Lok Sabha election 2024</a>

Upon his release, Kejriwal launched Opposition's strongest-ever election-time assault on Prime Minister Modi. The Delhi chief minister claimed that if re-elected, Modi will remain prime minister just for a year &nbsp;— as he will turn 75 in September 2026 and Modi in past is credited to have ensured that leaders beyond 75 years of age no longer get elected designations of power. Kejriwal added that after Modi turns 75, Union Home Minister Amit Shah will be allowed to remain&nbsp;PM for the rest of the tenure of the 18th Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Kejriwal's claim immediately put the BJP on defensive as it ended up showing off PM Modi as BJP's leader in control even "after 2029".&nbsp;

<h2>Aam Aadmi Party's performance in Lok Sabha Elections 2024</h2>

Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party lost all seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi, where his party is in power for over a decade. In Punjab, the AAP won just two seats with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann conceding&nbsp;defeat of the party, stating that the AAP accepts people's verdict with grace.

But in Punjab, the contradictions within the Opposition's 'INDIA' bloc hurt the AAP. Of the seven seats won by the Congress party, it defeated&nbsp;AAP candidates across four constituencies in one-on-one contests; in Fatehgarh Sahib, Firozpur, Patiala and Amritsar.&nbsp;

In terms of seats in Lok Sabha, India's lower house of parliament directly elected by people, the AAP has done better in the past. In their first Lok Sabha election in 2014, they won four seats, all in Punjab. In 2019, the tally came down to one. Despite sweeping Delhi assembly with 67 and 62 of 70 seats in last two elections, the party has failed to open its account in Lok Sabha constituencies of&nbsp;the national capital so far.&nbsp;

But the silver-lining for India's latest national political party came&nbsp;in terms of the vote share.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | India Elections 2024: India's stock market tumble as elections much tighter than forecast

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The AAP secured over 24 per cent vote share in the national capital where it had allied with Congress party as part of the 'INDIA' bloc.

But its partner in Delhi ate up its tangible vote share about 400 km north in Punjab where the two parties contested against each other, with the BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal players making it a four-side contest. AAP received a little over 26 per cent vote share, down from its 42 per cent share in 2022 assembly elections when it swept the state by winning 92 of 117 seats.&nbsp;

Arvind Kejriwal returned to Delhi's Tihar jail on June 2. In the Opposition 'INDIA' bloc's meetings for potential government formation or posing a challenge to the majority-claiming ruling National Democratic Alliance, his party would be represented by his lieutenants.&nbsp;

While his return from prison turbocharged a divided Opposition to move towards unity, the implications of his absence in 'INDIA' bloc meetings&nbsp;remain&nbsp;uncertain.

When Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in the alleged excise policy scam on March 21, it sparked a wave of unifying condemnation across the ranks and file of India's Opposition parties banded together as 'INDIA' bloc to deny PM Modi a third term in power.

When Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in the alleged excise policy scam on March 21, it sparked a wave of unifying condemnation across the ranks and file of India's Opposition parties banded together as 'INDIA' bloc to deny PM Modi a third term in power. Ten days later, on March 31, 2024 — to purportedly 'save democracy' — the Opposition did a show of unity at Delhi's historic Ramlila Maidan, the same venue where over a decade ago, Kejriwal under the leadership of social activist Anna Hazare, had led an anti-corruption campaign against the then-ruling United Progressive Alliance government led by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. Former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's spouse Kalpana Soren, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's spouse Sunita Kejriwal alongside top Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan during opposition 'INDIA' bloc's 'Save Democracy' rally on March 31, 2024 | ANI With Congress-led United Progressive Alliance of 2013 morphed into Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance ('INDIA') by 2024, in Ramlila Maidan, Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party stood with its avowed political foes of yesteryears. With speaking time allotted to all Opposition leaders, Arvind Kejriwal's spouse Sunita also delivered an address. So did former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren's spouse Kalpana Soren. The wave of unity sparked by Kejriwal's arrest as a show of alleged high-handedness of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government resonated across the Opposition parties all over India. Over six weeks later (on May 10), as Arvind Kejriwal came out of Delhi's Tihar jail after a Supreme Court verdict that allowed him to campaign in elections until June 2, 2024, it came as relieving surprise to the Opposition. Also read | Ayodhya to Kashmir to Kanyakumari: Key milestones of Lok Sabha election 2024 Upon his release, Kejriwal launched Opposition's strongest-ever election-time assault on Prime Minister Modi. The Delhi chief minister claimed that if re-elected, Modi will remain prime minister just for a year — as he will turn 75 in September 2026 and Modi in past is credited to have ensured that leaders beyond 75 years of age no longer get elected designations of power. Kejriwal added that after Modi turns 75, Union Home Minister Amit Shah will be allowed to remain PM for the rest of the tenure of the 18th Lok Sabha. Kejriwal's claim immediately put the BJP on defensive as it ended up showing off PM Modi as BJP's leader in control even "after 2029". Aam Aadmi Party's performance in Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party lost all seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi, where his party is in power for over a decade. In Punjab, the AAP won just two seats with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann conceding defeat of the party, stating that the AAP accepts people's verdict with grace. But in Punjab, the contradictions within the Opposition's 'INDIA' bloc hurt the AAP. Of the seven seats won by the Congress party, it defeated AAP candidates across four constituencies in one-on-one contests; in Fatehgarh Sahib, Firozpur, Patiala and Amritsar. In terms of seats in Lok Sabha, India's lower house of parliament directly elected by people, the AAP has done better in the past. In their first Lok Sabha election in 2014, they won four seats, all in Punjab. In 2019, the tally came down to one. Despite sweeping Delhi assembly with 67 and 62 of 70 seats in last two elections, the party has failed to open its account in Lok Sabha constituencies of the national capital so far. But the silver-lining for India's latest national political party came in terms of the vote share. Also watch | Gravitas | India Elections 2024: India's stock market tumble as elections much tighter than forecast × The AAP secured over 24 per cent vote share in the national capital where it had allied with Congress party as part of the 'INDIA' bloc. But its partner in Delhi ate up its tangible vote share about 400 km north in Punjab where the two parties contested against each other, with the BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal players making it a four-side contest. AAP received a little over 26 per cent vote share, down from its 42 per cent share in 2022 assembly elections when it swept the state by winning 92 of 117 seats. Arvind Kejriwal returned to Delhi's Tihar jail on June 2. In the Opposition 'INDIA' bloc's meetings for potential government formation or posing a challenge to the majority-claiming ruling National Democratic Alliance, his party would be represented by his lieutenants. While his return from prison turbocharged a divided Opposition to move towards unity, the implications of his absence in 'INDIA' bloc meetings remain uncertain.

Arvind Kejriwal's AAP fades as 'INDIA' shines

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar was sent in judicial custody for 14 days on Friday (May 31). Kumar, personal assistant to Kejriwal, has been accused of assaulting Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal on May 13.

The alleged incident took place right in the middle of India's raging election summer and&nbsp;immediately steamed up at the center of political discourse just before all 7 Lok Sabha seats in Delhi -- where Aam Aadmi Party is a key political player -- went to polls on May 25.&nbsp;

Metropolitan Magistrate Gaurav Goyal allowed the Delhi Police’s plea seeking judicial custody for Kumar, who was produced before him on expiry of his three- day police custody.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swati-maliwal-assault-case-footage-of-incident-might-have-been-tampered-say-cops-723003">Swati Maliwal assault case: Footage of incident might have been tampered with, say cops</a>

Separately, the Delhi High Court reserved its order on maintainability of Bibhav Kumar's plea challenging his arrest in Swati Maliwal assault case.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday (May 27), Kumar’s bail plea was dismissed by a sessions court after observing that there appeared to be no "pre-meditation" by Maliwal in lodging the First Information Report (FIR) that was filed and that her allegations could not be "swiped away" at Bibhav's wish.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;India: Swati Maliwal registers case against Delhi CM Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar

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Bibhav Kumar was arrested on May 18. He was sent to police custody for five days the same day by a magisterial court which observed that his anticipatory bail plea had become null-and-void because of his arrest.&nbsp;

He was sent to four-day judicial custody last Friday.

<h2>'I am left alone in this fight': Swati Maliwal</h2>

Speaking to news agency ANI, AAP MP Swati Maliwal said on Friday (May 31): "Bibhav Kumar beat me up very badly in Arvind Kejriwal's drawing room. As soon as I filed a complaint against him, he did the same. The entire party's leadership and resources were used against me. Every day I was victim-shamed, and my character was maligned. It was done repeatedly and even Arvind Kejriwal himself went with Bibhav Kumar to Lucknow and Amritsar. As soon as Bibhav Kumar was arrested by Delhi Police, Arvind Kejriwal and the entire party leadership came out on the streets and protested against his arrest. An attempt was made to paint me as if he was the hero and I was the villain. Today I have been left alone in this entire fight just because I filed a complaint against Bibhav Kumar. I am fighting this fight alone, but will fight till the end because I know that what I have said is the complete truth. In this fight, my hope is only and only from the court..."

Former Delhi Women's Commission chief-turned-AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal had filed an FIR against Bibhav Kumar under Indian Penal Code provisions, including for criminal intimidation, assault or criminal force on a woman with the intent to disrobe her and attempt to commit culpable homicide.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar was sent in judicial custody for 14 days on Friday (May 31). Kumar, personal assistant to Kejriwal, has been accused of assaulting Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal on May 13.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar was sent in judicial custody for 14 days on Friday (May 31). Kumar, personal assistant to Kejriwal, has been accused of assaulting Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal on May 13. The alleged incident took place right in the middle of India's raging election summer and immediately steamed up at the center of political discourse just before all 7 Lok Sabha seats in Delhi -- where Aam Aadmi Party is a key political player -- went to polls on May 25. Metropolitan Magistrate Gaurav Goyal allowed the Delhi Police’s plea seeking judicial custody for Kumar, who was produced before him on expiry of his three- day police custody. Also read | Swati Maliwal assault case: Footage of incident might have been tampered with, say cops Separately, the Delhi High Court reserved its order on maintainability of Bibhav Kumar's plea challenging his arrest in Swati Maliwal assault case. Earlier on Monday (May 27), Kumar’s bail plea was dismissed by a sessions court after observing that there appeared to be no "pre-meditation" by Maliwal in lodging the First Information Report (FIR) that was filed and that her allegations could not be "swiped away" at Bibhav's wish. Also watch | India: Swati Maliwal registers case against Delhi CM Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar × Bibhav Kumar was arrested on May 18. He was sent to police custody for five days the same day by a magisterial court which observed that his anticipatory bail plea had become null-and-void because of his arrest. He was sent to four-day judicial custody last Friday. 'I am left alone in this fight': Swati Maliwal Speaking to news agency ANI, AAP MP Swati Maliwal said on Friday (May 31): "Bibhav Kumar beat me up very badly in Arvind Kejriwal's drawing room. As soon as I filed a complaint against him, he did the same. The entire party's leadership and resources were used against me. Every day I was victim-shamed, and my character was maligned. It was done repeatedly and even Arvind Kejriwal himself went with Bibhav Kumar to Lucknow and Amritsar. As soon as Bibhav Kumar was arrested by Delhi Police, Arvind Kejriwal and the entire party leadership came out on the streets and protested against his arrest. An attempt was made to paint me as if he was the hero and I was the villain. Today I have been left alone in this entire fight just because I filed a complaint against Bibhav Kumar. I am fighting this fight alone, but will fight till the end because I know that what I have said is the complete truth. In this fight, my hope is only and only from the court..." Former Delhi Women's Commission chief-turned-AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal had filed an FIR against Bibhav Kumar under Indian Penal Code provisions, including for criminal intimidation, assault or criminal force on a woman with the intent to disrobe her and attempt to commit culpable homicide. (With inputs from agencies)

Swati Maliwal assault case: Delhi CM Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar sent to 14 days judicial custody

Wastage of water in Delhi may now land you in a hot soup and with a hole in the pocket as the Aam Aadmi Party government here has decided to adopt a heavy-handed approach amidst intense heatwaves and water crisis. Delhi has been experiencing record-breaking heat for the last few days, with the mercury touching 49.9 Celsius on Wednesday (May 29). In the backdrop of the heatwave and acute water crisis, the Delhi government has now decided to impose fines on residents for washing cars or any wastage like letting their tanks overflow.&nbsp;As per media reports, water supply may also be restricted, with areas now receiving water twice a day getting it only once.

Delhi Water Minister Atishi said Tuesday, "Even today I saw that in many residential areas of South Delhi, water is flowing in the driveways outside people’s houses due to washing of vehicles. My appeal to everyone is that you should not wash vehicles this way. If this public appeal does not work in the next one or two days, it is possible that we may have to impose a challan on excess usage of water. But right now we are issuing this appeal.”

“To address the problem of water scarcity, we have taken a slew of measures such as reducing water supply from twice a day to once a day in many areas… The areas which currently get water twice a day, will get once a day now… the water thus saved will be rationed and supplied to the water-deficient areas where supply lasts only 15 to 20 minutes a day,” Atishi said. 
 
In a tweet, she said, "Have issued directions to crackdown on wastage of water and illegal water connections. 200 teams of Delhi Jal Board will hit the ground. Fines will be imposed on anyone washing cars with pipes or with overflowing water tanks. Illegal water connections at construction sites and at commercial establishments will be disconnected."

She also directed CEO DJB to deploy 200 teams to check wastage and impose a fine of Rs 2000.&nbsp; 
 
The minister, meanwhile, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party government in neighbouring Haryana state of stopping the flow of the Yamuna River into Delhi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwijrteTzbKGAxW3XWwGHfnWAD4QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-water-crisis-aaps-atishi-accuses-bjp-of-stopping-yamuna-flow-hatching-water-conspiracy-724363" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-water-crisis-aaps-atishi-accuses-bjp-of-stopping-yamuna-flow-hatching-water-conspiracy-724363&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijrteTzbKGAxW3XWwGHfnWAD4QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Delhi water crisis: AAP's Atishi accuses BJP of stopping Yamuna flow, hatching 'water conspiracy'</a>

"We should stand together and think about everyone…Today, we are in a very difficult situation where water supply to Delhi is being stopped by the Haryana government… Please co-operate and use the water judiciously…,” she said.

She also threatened to approach the Supreme Court of India if "Haryana government does not resolve the issue."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwijrteTzbKGAxW3XWwGHfnWAD4QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-from-indias-delhi-dies-after-taking-slide-in-water-park-in-noida-probe-launched-report-708939" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-from-indias-delhi-dies-after-taking-slide-in-water-park-in-noida-probe-launched-report-708939&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijrteTzbKGAxW3XWwGHfnWAD4QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Man from India`s Delhi dies after taking slide at water park in Noida, probe launched: Report</a>

Delhi is largely dependent on neighbouring states to meet its water demands, with 64 per cent coming from Haryana and the rest from Uttar Pradesh.

(With inputs from agencies)

Wastage of water in Delhi may now land you in a hot soup and with a hole in the pocket as the Aam Aadmi Party government here has decided to adopt a heavy-handed approach amidst intense heatwaves and water crisis.

Wastage of water in Delhi may now land you in a hot soup and with a hole in the pocket as the Aam Aadmi Party government here has decided to adopt a heavy-handed approach amidst intense heatwaves and water crisis. Delhi has been experiencing record-breaking heat for the last few days, with the mercury touching 49.9 Celsius on Wednesday (May 29). In the backdrop of the heatwave and acute water crisis, the Delhi government has now decided to impose fines on residents for washing cars or any wastage like letting their tanks overflow. As per media reports, water supply may also be restricted, with areas now receiving water twice a day getting it only once. Delhi Water Minister Atishi said Tuesday, "Even today I saw that in many residential areas of South Delhi, water is flowing in the driveways outside people’s houses due to washing of vehicles. My appeal to everyone is that you should not wash vehicles this way. If this public appeal does not work in the next one or two days, it is possible that we may have to impose a challan on excess usage of water. But right now we are issuing this appeal.” “To address the problem of water scarcity, we have taken a slew of measures such as reducing water supply from twice a day to once a day in many areas… The areas which currently get water twice a day, will get once a day now… the water thus saved will be rationed and supplied to the water-deficient areas where supply lasts only 15 to 20 minutes a day,” Atishi said. In a tweet, she said, "Have issued directions to crackdown on wastage of water and illegal water connections. 200 teams of Delhi Jal Board will hit the ground. Fines will be imposed on anyone washing cars with pipes or with overflowing water tanks. Illegal water connections at construction sites and at commercial establishments will be disconnected." She also directed CEO DJB to deploy 200 teams to check wastage and impose a fine of Rs 2000. The minister, meanwhile, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party government in neighbouring Haryana state of stopping the flow of the Yamuna River into Delhi. Also read: Delhi water crisis: AAP's Atishi accuses BJP of stopping Yamuna flow, hatching 'water conspiracy' "We should stand together and think about everyone…Today, we are in a very difficult situation where water supply to Delhi is being stopped by the Haryana government… Please co-operate and use the water judiciously…,” she said. She also threatened to approach the Supreme Court of India if "Haryana government does not resolve the issue." Also read: Man from India`s Delhi dies after taking slide at water park in Noida, probe launched: Report Delhi is largely dependent on neighbouring states to meet its water demands, with 64 per cent coming from Haryana and the rest from Uttar Pradesh. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Car washing banned,’ Delhi govt introduces fine for wasting water amidst acute shortage

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Tuesday (May 28) issued a summon to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi in a defamation case filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The case revolves around Atishi's allegations that the BJP was trying to poach AAP lawmakers. The court has asked Atishi to appear on June 29. Delhi BJP Media head Praveen Shankar Kapoor had filed a defamation suit against the AAP leader and said the 'baseless' claims harmed the interests of his party.

<h2>Atishi's allegations</h2>

In April, Atishi&nbsp;in&nbsp;a press&nbsp;conference&nbsp;had alleged that the BJP was pressing her to either join their party or face action by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India's premier financial intelligence agency.

Atishi also claimed that the ED&nbsp;was planning&nbsp;to detain top AAP leadership, including Saurabh Bharadwaj, Durgesh Pathak, and Raghav Chadha.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjMj-artrCGAxWTxzgGHc2nCGgQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-i-voted-against-dictatorship-says-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-725252" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-i-voted-against-dictatorship-says-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-725252&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjMj-artrCGAxWTxzgGHc2nCGgQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Lok Sabha elections 2024: I voted against dictatorship, says Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal</a>

"I was told that I should enhance my political career by joining the BJP, otherwise the ED would arrest me within a month... Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are determined to dismantle AAP and its leadership," Atishi stated during the press conference.

<h2>Operation Lotus</h2>

India's opposition parties, mainly AAP, have accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP party of carrying out 'Operation Lotus', an alleged campaign&nbsp;to systematically dismantle the country's opposition using state machinery.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwih3fiftrCGAxXdnmMGHR4LBJ4QvOMEKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/sc-denies-urgent-hearing-for-arvind-kejriwals-request-for-7-day-extension-of-interim-bail-726225" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/sc-denies-urgent-hearing-for-arvind-kejriwals-request-for-7-day-extension-of-interim-bail-726225&amp;ved=2ahUKEwih3fiftrCGAxXdnmMGHR4LBJ4QvOMEKAB6BAgQEAE">SC denies urgent hearing for Arvind Kejriwal`s request for 7-day extension of interim bail</a>

AAP has accused the BJP of offering money, position, security and position to its lawmakers, both&nbsp;in Delhi and Punjab,&nbsp;in exchange for shifting allegiances.

<h2>Arvind Kejriwal's reaction</h2>

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal&nbsp;termed&nbsp;the court's summon&nbsp;as&nbsp; 'dictatorship'.

"I had said earlier that they will arrest Atishi next. They are planning to do so now. Complete dictatorship. In completely flimsy, frivolous, and false cases, they are arresting ALL leaders of AAP one by one. Every single opposition leader will be arrested if Modi ji comes back to power. AAP is not imp. Saving our dear country from dictatorship is important," Delhi CM posted on X on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Tuesday (May 28) issued a summon to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi in a defamation case filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Tuesday (May 28) issued a summon to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi in a defamation case filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The case revolves around Atishi's allegations that the BJP was trying to poach AAP lawmakers. The court has asked Atishi to appear on June 29. Delhi BJP Media head Praveen Shankar Kapoor had filed a defamation suit against the AAP leader and said the 'baseless' claims harmed the interests of his party. Atishi's allegations In April, Atishi in a press conference had alleged that the BJP was pressing her to either join their party or face action by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India's premier financial intelligence agency. Atishi also claimed that the ED was planning to detain top AAP leadership, including Saurabh Bharadwaj, Durgesh Pathak, and Raghav Chadha. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: I voted against dictatorship, says Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal "I was told that I should enhance my political career by joining the BJP, otherwise the ED would arrest me within a month... Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are determined to dismantle AAP and its leadership," Atishi stated during the press conference. Operation Lotus India's opposition parties, mainly AAP, have accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP party of carrying out 'Operation Lotus', an alleged campaign to systematically dismantle the country's opposition using state machinery. Also read: SC denies urgent hearing for Arvind Kejriwal`s request for 7-day extension of interim bail AAP has accused the BJP of offering money, position, security and position to its lawmakers, both in Delhi and Punjab, in exchange for shifting allegiances. Arvind Kejriwal's reaction Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal termed the court's summon as 'dictatorship'. "I had said earlier that they will arrest Atishi next. They are planning to do so now. Complete dictatorship. In completely flimsy, frivolous, and false cases, they are arresting ALL leaders of AAP one by one. Every single opposition leader will be arrested if Modi ji comes back to power. AAP is not imp. Saving our dear country from dictatorship is important," Delhi CM posted on X on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

AAP’s Atishi summoned by Delhi court after accusing BJP of ‘poaching MLAs’

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has sought an extension of his interim bail by seven days, the news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 27). Chief Minister Kejriwal was arrested in the Delhi excise policy case on March 21.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has sought an extension of his interim bail by seven days, the news agency ANI reported on Monday (May 27). Chief Minister Kejriwal was arrested in the Delhi excise policy case on March 21. On May 10, the Supreme Court granted Kejriwal interim bail till June 1. The Supreme Court asked Kejriwal to surrender on June 2. Citing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), ANI reported that Kejriwal has filed a petition in the apex court, seeking an extension of his interim bail by a week. Also read | Lok Sabha elections 2024: I voted against dictatorship, says Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal "Kejriwal has to undergo PET-CT scan and other tests. Kejriwal asked for 7 days to get the investigation done," the AAP said. Kejriwal lost seven kilogrammes after arrest The AAP also said that Kejriwal lost seven kilogrammes following his arrest, adding his ketone level is high which could signal some disease. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal files a petition in the Supreme Court, seeking an extension of his interim bail by 7 days. Delhi CM Kejriwal has to undergo PET-CT scan and other tests. Kejriwal asked for 7 days to get the investigation done: Aam Aadmi Party — ANI (@ANI) May 27, 2024 × Following his release from jail, the chief minister has been involved in campaigning for the INDIA bloc in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in India. Polling was held in the capital Delhi on Saturday (May 25). Interim bail conditions for Delhi CM The Supreme Court imposed certain conditions while granting interim bail to Kejriwal. The court said he would not interact with any of the witnesses or have access to any official files connected to the excise policy case. Kejriwal would not make any comment concerning his role in the case. The apex court also said that the CM "shall be bound by the statement made on his behalf that he shall not sign official files unless it is required and necessary for obtaining clearance/ approval of the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi." (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi excise policy case: Kejriwal files petition in SC seeking extension of interim bail by seven days

In a new twist to the high-voltage political drama gripping Indian capital New Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal broke her silence over AAP terming her assault allegations as part of a political conspiracy hatched by the ruling BJP, stating that she was ready to undergo a polygraph test.

Maliwal, who levelled the assault allegations against Bibhav Kumar, the assistant of AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal,&nbsp;lashed out at the party for victim shaming, calling it "a huge blow to the entire women's movement."

"If I am wrong then I am ready to undergo a polygraph test and I want the police to do it," she said in an interview to ANI news agency.

"Everything will be clear then. I want the police to conduct a polygraph test on me because how can I live with this realisation that a girl who has always given courage to girls to fight, today you have portrayed me as one that have made false allegations before the whole world," said the the former Delhi Commission for Women chief.

She also questioned the credibility of the video clips released by AAP that purportedly showed Maliwal engaging in an argument with the security personnel at the CM's residence on the day the alleged incident took place.

"Now they are raising questions that look at the CCTV footage, look how she is walking, she is walking fine. In the edited video also, she is sitting at ease. So I want to know, if you get beaten up, what will be your first reaction? You're very agitated. Obviously, there is pain but there is agitation which takes you over there is very high adrenaline also running through your body," she said. "According to the Delhi Police, it is being said that the CCTV footage has not reached them till now. So is this CCTV footage fully correct? Or is it doctored?"

"And on top of it, I am still walking, limping after four days. So anyone who has been hurt will understand this, when the wound is fresh you can freely walk or run, and when the wound gets settled then the pain kicks in. So now whatever they are saying that first she was walking really fast and now look she is limping and all. I feel that there could be no worse victim shaming than this. The sad part is that a lady minister of Delhi has said that look, her clothes are torn, look, there are no wounds on her head. That was all left to do maybe, should have got it also done," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swati-maliwal-assault-case-footage-of-incident-might-have-been-tampered-say-cops-723003">Also read: Swati Maliwal assault case: Footage of incident might have been tampered with, say cops</a>

<h2>AAP's reaction on Swati Maliwal's allegations</h2>

Her remarks come after AAP minister Atishi claimed that Maliwal went to the CM's residence on May 13, the day of the alleged assault, without an appointment.

"Why did she barge in? Why did she land up at the chief minister's residence without an appointment? Arvind Kejriwal was busy that day and did not meet her. If he had met her that day, the allegations levelled against Bibhav Kumar could have been levelled against him," Atishi said.

Maliwal had filed a complaint against&nbsp;Bibhav Kumar on May 14, a day after the alleged incident took place.

Kumar lodged a counter-complaint with the police, accusing Maliwal of gaining 'unauthorised entry' into the CM's Civil Lines residence and 'verbally abusing' him.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a new twist to the high-voltage political drama gripping Indian capital New Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal broke her silence over AAP terming her assault allegations as part of a political conspiracy hatched by the ruling BJP, stating that she was ready to undergo a polygraph test.

In a new twist to the high-voltage political drama gripping Indian capital New Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal broke her silence over AAP terming her assault allegations as part of a political conspiracy hatched by the ruling BJP, stating that she was ready to undergo a polygraph test. Maliwal, who levelled the assault allegations against Bibhav Kumar, the assistant of AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, lashed out at the party for victim shaming, calling it "a huge blow to the entire women's movement." "If I am wrong then I am ready to undergo a polygraph test and I want the police to do it," she said in an interview to ANI news agency. "Everything will be clear then. I want the police to conduct a polygraph test on me because how can I live with this realisation that a girl who has always given courage to girls to fight, today you have portrayed me as one that have made false allegations before the whole world," said the the former Delhi Commission for Women chief. She also questioned the credibility of the video clips released by AAP that purportedly showed Maliwal engaging in an argument with the security personnel at the CM's residence on the day the alleged incident took place. "Now they are raising questions that look at the CCTV footage, look how she is walking, she is walking fine. In the edited video also, she is sitting at ease. So I want to know, if you get beaten up, what will be your first reaction? You're very agitated. Obviously, there is pain but there is agitation which takes you over there is very high adrenaline also running through your body," she said. "According to the Delhi Police, it is being said that the CCTV footage has not reached them till now. So is this CCTV footage fully correct? Or is it doctored?" "And on top of it, I am still walking, limping after four days. So anyone who has been hurt will understand this, when the wound is fresh you can freely walk or run, and when the wound gets settled then the pain kicks in. So now whatever they are saying that first she was walking really fast and now look she is limping and all. I feel that there could be no worse victim shaming than this. The sad part is that a lady minister of Delhi has said that look, her clothes are torn, look, there are no wounds on her head. That was all left to do maybe, should have got it also done," she added. Also read: Swati Maliwal assault case: Footage of incident might have been tampered with, say cops AAP's reaction on Swati Maliwal's allegations Her remarks come after AAP minister Atishi claimed that Maliwal went to the CM's residence on May 13, the day of the alleged assault, without an appointment. "Why did she barge in? Why did she land up at the chief minister's residence without an appointment? Arvind Kejriwal was busy that day and did not meet her. If he had met her that day, the allegations levelled against Bibhav Kumar could have been levelled against him," Atishi said. Maliwal had filed a complaint against Bibhav Kumar on May 14, a day after the alleged incident took place. Kumar lodged a counter-complaint with the police, accusing Maliwal of gaining 'unauthorised entry' into the CM's Civil Lines residence and 'verbally abusing' him. (With inputs from agencies)

Swati Maliwal alleges victim shaming by AAP, says 'ready to undergo polygraph test'

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal finally broke silence on the Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal's assault case. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief on Wednesday (May 22) called for a fair investigation and said that there are two versions of the event.&nbsp;

During an interview with news agency PTI, Kejriwal said that the ongoing case is "sub-judice" and commenting on it could affect the proceedings. &nbsp;

"But I expect there will be a fair investigation. Justice should be served. There are two versions of the event. Police should investigate both versions fairly and justice should be done," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-expected-some-candour-indian-supreme-court-rubbishes-ex-cm-hemant-sorens-bail-plea-724283">'We expected some candour:'&nbsp;Indian Supreme Court rubbishes ex-CM Hemant&nbsp;Soren's&nbsp;bail&nbsp;plea</a>&nbsp;

Maliwal accused Kejriwal's personal aide, Bibhav Kumar, of assaulting her when she visited the chief minister's residence.&nbsp;

She had filed a first information report (FIR) and Kumar was taken into custody by Delhi Police, but the allegations have triggered a political storm amid elections.&nbsp;

On being asked whether or not he was present at his official residence at the time of the alleged incident, Kejriwal said he was there but "not present at the scene".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-election-commission-asks-bjp-congress-to-maintain-decorum-during-election-campaigning-724323">India's election commission asks BJP, Congress to maintain decorum during election campaigning</a>&nbsp;

Maliwal reacted to Kejriwal's comments in the interview. She said, "Irony died a thousand deaths. I don’t buy this one bit."&nbsp;

She wrote on X, "After unleashing the entire army of leaders and volunteers at me, calling me a BJP agent, assassinating my character, leaking edited videos, victim shaming me, roaming around with the accused, letting him re-enter the crime scene and tamper evidence and protesting in favour of the accused, the Chief Minister, in whose drawing-room I was beaten up, has finally said that he wants free and fair investigation in the matter."&nbsp;

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After unleashing the entire army of leaders and volunteers at me, calling me a BJP agent, assassinating my character, leaking edited videos, victim shaming me, roaming around with the accused, letting him re enter the crime scene and tamper evidences and protesting in favour of… <a href="https://t.co/ybNwRqGq1K">https://t.co/ybNwRqGq1K</a>
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Watch:&nbsp;Fact Check: Did LK Advani call Rahul Gandhi 'hero of Indian politics'?&nbsp;

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Earlier in the day, Maliwal said on X that she received a call from a "senior leader" from the party. She wrote, "I got a call from a senior leader of the party. He told me how there is a lot of pressure on everyone, they have to speak dirty things against Swati, they have to break her by leaking her personal photos."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal finally broke silence on the Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal's assault case. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief on Wednesday (May 22) called for a fair investigation and said that there are two versions of the event.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal finally broke silence on the Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal's assault case. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief on Wednesday (May 22) called for a fair investigation and said that there are two versions of the event. During an interview with news agency PTI, Kejriwal said that the ongoing case is "sub-judice" and commenting on it could affect the proceedings. "But I expect there will be a fair investigation. Justice should be served. There are two versions of the event. Police should investigate both versions fairly and justice should be done," he added. Also read: 'We expected some candour:' Indian Supreme Court rubbishes ex-CM Hemant Soren's bail plea Maliwal accused Kejriwal's personal aide, Bibhav Kumar, of assaulting her when she visited the chief minister's residence. She had filed a first information report (FIR) and Kumar was taken into custody by Delhi Police, but the allegations have triggered a political storm amid elections. On being asked whether or not he was present at his official residence at the time of the alleged incident, Kejriwal said he was there but "not present at the scene". Also read: India's election commission asks BJP, Congress to maintain decorum during election campaigning Maliwal reacted to Kejriwal's comments in the interview. She said, "Irony died a thousand deaths. I don’t buy this one bit." She wrote on X, "After unleashing the entire army of leaders and volunteers at me, calling me a BJP agent, assassinating my character, leaking edited videos, victim shaming me, roaming around with the accused, letting him re-enter the crime scene and tamper evidence and protesting in favour of the accused, the Chief Minister, in whose drawing-room I was beaten up, has finally said that he wants free and fair investigation in the matter." After unleashing the entire army of leaders and volunteers at me, calling me a BJP agent, assassinating my character, leaking edited videos, victim shaming me, roaming around with the accused, letting him re enter the crime scene and tamper evidences and protesting in favour of… https://t.co/ybNwRqGq1K — Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) May 22, 2024 × Watch: Fact Check: Did LK Advani call Rahul Gandhi 'hero of Indian politics'? × Earlier in the day, Maliwal said on X that she received a call from a "senior leader" from the party. She wrote, "I got a call from a senior leader of the party. He told me how there is a lot of pressure on everyone, they have to speak dirty things against Swati, they have to break her by leaking her personal photos." (With inputs from agencies)

AAP MP assault case: Swati Maliwal says ‘irony died thousand deaths’ as CM Kejriwal calls for fair probe

Former bitter Rivals the Aam Aadmi Party and the Indian National Congress have joined hands to Corner the Bhartiya Janata Party. Out of the seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi the AAP is fighting the BJP in four and the Congress is grappling with the BJP for the remaining three. Watch in for more details!

India General Elections 2024: AAP & Congress lend support to each other's campaigns in Delhi

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha was seen in India for the first time in months amid the party crisis, which began after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) followed by the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swati-maliwal-assault-case-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwals-aide-bibhav-kumar-detained-by-police-722744">Swati Maliwal assault case</a>&nbsp;saga.&nbsp;

The investigating agency arrested Kejriwal in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.&nbsp;

The arrest led to chaos in India's capital with AAP members and supporters protesting against the action by ED just a few days before the polling began for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/lok-sabha-election-2024">Lok Sabha Election</a>.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kejriwal-challenges-pm-modi-will-come-to-bjp-hq-tomorrow-put-in-jail-whoever-you-want-to-722864">Kejriwal challenges PM Modi; 'will come to BJP HQ tomorrow, put in jail whoever you want to'</a>&nbsp;

However, during the demonstrations, Chadha's absence was noticed by the opposition as well as the media. He was missing from the party's campaigning for the general election.&nbsp;

Last month, Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said that Chadha has undergone major eye surgery in the United Kingdom and will join the party's Lok Sabha poll campaigning once he is better. He added that the MP had developed a serious eye ailment which could have led to blindness.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-bibhav-kumar-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwals-aide-arrested-for-allegedly-assaulting-aap-mp-swati-maliwal-722786">Who is Bibhav Kumar? Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s aide arrested for allegedly assaulting AAP MP Swati Maliwal</a>&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had also said that Chadha will campaign for the party for the elections.&nbsp;

"Raghav Chadha has undergone a major eye surgery in the UK. It is said that his condition was serious and there was a possibility of blindness. As soon as he gets better, he will come back to India and join us in the election campaigning," Bharadwaj had told PTI Videos.&nbsp;

On Saturday (May 18), Chadha, AAP's MP from Punjab, made his first appearance in months.

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: AAP MP Raghav Chadha arrives at the residence of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal 
 
He was in UK and had undergone eye surgery there <a href="https://t.co/XUGuqxHBIY">pic.twitter.com/XUGuqxHBIY</a>
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<h2>Arvind Kejriwal's arrest&nbsp;</h2>

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by ED. The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021, but it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations have been levelled against the party, which AAP denies. &nbsp;

<h2>Swati Maliwal assault case&nbsp;</h2>

Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal accused Kejriwal's aide, Bibhav Kumar, of assaulting her when she visited the chief minister's residence on Monday. Maliwal had filed a first information report (FIR) and Kumar has been taken into custody by Delhi Police, but the allegations have&nbsp;triggered a political storm amid elections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha was seen in India for the first time in months amid the party crisis, which began after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) followed by the ongoing Swati Maliwal assault case saga.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha was seen in India for the first time in months amid the party crisis, which began after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) followed by the ongoing Swati Maliwal assault case saga. The investigating agency arrested Kejriwal in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. The arrest led to chaos in India's capital with AAP members and supporters protesting against the action by ED just a few days before the polling began for the Lok Sabha Election. Also read: Kejriwal challenges PM Modi; 'will come to BJP HQ tomorrow, put in jail whoever you want to' However, during the demonstrations, Chadha's absence was noticed by the opposition as well as the media. He was missing from the party's campaigning for the general election. Last month, Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said that Chadha has undergone major eye surgery in the United Kingdom and will join the party's Lok Sabha poll campaigning once he is better. He added that the MP had developed a serious eye ailment which could have led to blindness. Also read: Who is Bibhav Kumar? Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s aide arrested for allegedly assaulting AAP MP Swati Maliwal Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had also said that Chadha will campaign for the party for the elections. "Raghav Chadha has undergone a major eye surgery in the UK. It is said that his condition was serious and there was a possibility of blindness. As soon as he gets better, he will come back to India and join us in the election campaigning," Bharadwaj had told PTI Videos. On Saturday (May 18), Chadha, AAP's MP from Punjab, made his first appearance in months. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Delhi: AAP MP Raghav Chadha arrives at the residence of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal He was in UK and had undergone eye surgery there pic.twitter.com/XUGuqxHBIY — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2024 × Arvind Kejriwal's arrest Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by ED. The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021, but it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations have been levelled against the party, which AAP denies. Swati Maliwal assault case Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal accused Kejriwal's aide, Bibhav Kumar, of assaulting her when she visited the chief minister's residence on Monday. Maliwal had filed a first information report (FIR) and Kumar has been taken into custody by Delhi Police, but the allegations have triggered a political storm amid elections. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Raghav Chadha arrives at Arvind Kejriwal’s residence in Delhi after months of absence

AAP Rajya Sabha lawmaker Swati Maliwal, in her FIR or first information report against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar, made some serious allegations of assault.

AAP Rajya Sabha lawmaker Swati Maliwal, in her FIR or first information report against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar, made some serious allegations of assault. Maliwal claimed that Kumar assaulted her in the drawing room of the Delhi CM's official residence on Monday morning (May 13) when Kejriwal was present inside the house. In the FIR, Maliwal said that she reached the house of Kejriwal and tried to contact the chief minister's aide, but she did not receive any response. Maliwal said that she had informed the staff about her presence and was asked to wait. She claimed that Bibhav Kumar suddenly ran into the room and began verbally abusing her. Also Read: Swati Maliwal assault: BJP steps up attack on AAP amid ‘threat to her life’ Maliwal accused Kumar of slapping her seven to eight times on the face and also kicking her on the chest, stomach, and sensitive parts. 'I was menstruating, begging him to leave me' "Bibhav came and started abusing and kept slapping without provocation," claimed Maliwal, in her complaint. "I made noise and said 'Let me go', but he kept beating me continuously and abusing me in Hindi. He threatened, 'We will see, we will deal with it'. I informed him that I was menstruating and in considerable pain, begging him to leave me alone," she said. "I felt absolutely shocked and was screaming for help over and over again. In order to protect myself, I pushed him away with my legs. At that time, he pounced on me, brutally dragged and deliberately pulled my shirt up. Bibhav Kumar did not relent and attacked me by kicking me in my chest, stomach and pelvis area with his legs," Maliwal said, as per the FIR. As per the complaint, Maliwal said that she somehow ran out of the house and dialled the police. "I was in a terrible state of shock at this attack. I was deeply traumatised and called the 112 number and reported the incident," said Maliwal, in the FIR. Watch: Swati Maliwal assault case: Case registered against Delhi Cm's aide Bibhav Kumar She added that the security personnel did not assist her and instead threw her out following Kumar's instruction. "Bibhav came back with the security personnel working at the main gate. I kept telling them that I was brutally beaten up and they should look at my condition and wait until the police came but they asked me to leave the premises," Maliwal said in her statement to the police. Maliwal was earlier escorted by the Delhi Police to the AIIMS Trauma Centre for a medical checkup. The FIR has been registered by the Delhi Police against Kumar under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, which includes assault or criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty, criminal intimidation and insulting modesty. After visiting the police, Maliwal appealed on social media that her matter should not be politicised. (With inputs from agencies)

Swati Maliwal claims Kerjiwal's aide 'slapped, kicked on chest and pelvis area’ in her FIR

A political storm has erupted in New Delhi following allegations by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Swati Maliwal that she&nbsp;was assaulted&nbsp;at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind&nbsp;Kejriwal's&nbsp;official residence. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday (May 15) staged protests outside&nbsp;Kejriwal's&nbsp;residence and demanded a thorough investigation into&nbsp;the alleged incident.

The chief of the Delhi unit of BJP also questioned&nbsp;Kejriwal's&nbsp;silence over the matter even as senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh earlier confirmed that the CM has taken cognisance of&nbsp;Maliwal's&nbsp;allegations.

“Why&nbsp;isn't&nbsp;the Chief Minister saying anything? The incident happened at his residence, he should have called the police. But, he is not doing anything which throws his role in all this under suspicion,”&nbsp;said Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva.

Meanwhile, Naveen Jaihind, the ex-husband of the AAP MP Swati Maliwal, has alleged that there is a threat to her life and&nbsp;"anything could happen"&nbsp;to her.

On Tuesday, senior AAP leader and MP Sanjay Singh had confirmed that&nbsp;Kejriwal's&nbsp; personal secretary, Bibhav Kumar, had&nbsp;“misbehaved”&nbsp;with Maliwal. Singh also assured that Kejriwal would take strict action against the accused.

However, the&nbsp;BJP&nbsp;stepped up attacks on&nbsp;AAP over what it said was a delay in action.

The PM&nbsp;Narendra&nbsp;Modi's&nbsp;party&nbsp;also suggested that political pressure on Maliwal may have prevented her from filing a police complaint against&nbsp;Kejriwal's&nbsp;secretary.

Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has announced it will investigate the matter.&nbsp;Earlier,&nbsp;it also directed Delhi police to file an action report within 72 hours.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi_08T1_Y-GAxXsoWMGHTPsBdYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-admits-kejriwals-aide-misbehaved-with-swati-maliwal-in-delhi-cms-drawing-room-721373" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-admits-kejriwals-aide-misbehaved-with-swati-maliwal-in-delhi-cms-drawing-room-721373&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi_08T1_Y-GAxXsoWMGHTPsBdYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">AAP admits Kejriwal’s aide ‘misbehaved’ with MP Swati Maliwal in Delhi CM’s drawing room</a>

Notably, other opposition leaders have maintained distance from the allegations.

Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge refused to comment on the incident whereas&nbsp;Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav evaded the question.

On Monday, Delhi Police had confirmed it received two calls from&nbsp;Maliwal's&nbsp;phone number while she was at Delhi&nbsp;CM's&nbsp;residence. However, they said the AAP MP&nbsp;didn't&nbsp;file an official complaint when she visited the police station.

(With inputs from agencies)

A political storm has erupted in New Delhi following allegations by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Swati Maliwal that she was assaulted at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's official residence.

A political storm has erupted in New Delhi following allegations by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Swati Maliwal that she was assaulted at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's official residence. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday (May 15) staged protests outside Kejriwal's residence and demanded a thorough investigation into the alleged incident. The chief of the Delhi unit of BJP also questioned Kejriwal's silence over the matter even as senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh earlier confirmed that the CM has taken cognisance of Maliwal's allegations. “Why isn't the Chief Minister saying anything? The incident happened at his residence, he should have called the police. But, he is not doing anything which throws his role in all this under suspicion,” said Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva. Meanwhile, Naveen Jaihind, the ex-husband of the AAP MP Swati Maliwal, has alleged that there is a threat to her life and "anything could happen" to her. On Tuesday, senior AAP leader and MP Sanjay Singh had confirmed that Kejriwal's personal secretary, Bibhav Kumar, had “misbehaved” with Maliwal. Singh also assured that Kejriwal would take strict action against the accused. However, the BJP stepped up attacks on AAP over what it said was a delay in action. The PM Narendra Modi's party also suggested that political pressure on Maliwal may have prevented her from filing a police complaint against Kejriwal's secretary. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has announced it will investigate the matter. Earlier, it also directed Delhi police to file an action report within 72 hours. Also read: AAP admits Kejriwal’s aide ‘misbehaved’ with MP Swati Maliwal in Delhi CM’s drawing room Notably, other opposition leaders have maintained distance from the allegations. Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge refused to comment on the incident whereas Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav evaded the question. On Monday, Delhi Police had confirmed it received two calls from Maliwal's phone number while she was at Delhi CM's residence. However, they said the AAP MP didn't file an official complaint when she visited the police station. (With inputs from agencies)

Swati Maliwal assault: BJP steps up attack on AAP amid ‘threat to her life’

Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-grants-interim-bail-to-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-720049">Arvind Kejriwal</a> received a warm welcome as he walked out of Tihar Jail on Friday (May 10) on bail. Earlier in the day, the Indian Supreme Court granted him interim bail till June 1. Videos showed firecrackers being burst outside his residence.&nbsp;

Kejriwal addressed a large gathering of his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supporters after he reached his official residence.

"I am back," he said. "It feels nice to be in front of you all. I told you that I would return soon. I am back."&nbsp;

"I want to thank all of you. You gave me your blessings. I want to thank the judges of the Supreme Court, it is because of them that I am in front of you. We have to save the country from dictatorship," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-court-charges-brij-bhushan-singh-with-sexual-harassment-of-female-wrestlers-720142">Delhi Court charges Brij Bhushan Singh with sexual harassment of female wrestlers</a>&nbsp;

On his release, MP Swati Maliwal said, "On behalf of the people of the country, I wholeheartedly thank the Supreme Court. Arvind Kejriwal ji did amazing work in Delhi and Punjab.

"Today when he has been released from jail, there is a wave of happiness and hope in the entire country which will definitely translate into votes. We will win with a huge margin."&nbsp;

<blockquote>
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal addresses party workers after being released from Tihar jail. 
 
CM Kejriwal says, "Tomorrow at 11 am we will go to the Hanuman Temple at Connaught Place and at 1 pm, we will address a press conference at the party office." 
 
The Supreme Court… <a href="https://t.co/76ij5KZ4iw">pic.twitter.com/76ij5KZ4iw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1788929244636053802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<h2>Arvind Kejriwal's arrest&nbsp;</h2>

The AAP supremo was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.&nbsp;

The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021.

But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022.

Corruption allegations were levelled against the party. AAP denies the allegations.&nbsp;

The investigating agencies have said that the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy.&nbsp;

The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits.

The Delhi chief minister even challenged his arrest by the ED, but it was rejected by the Delhi High Court.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal received a warm welcome as he walked out of Tihar Jail on Friday (May 10) on bail. Earlier in the day, the Indian Supreme Court granted him interim bail till June 1.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal received a warm welcome as he walked out of Tihar Jail on Friday (May 10) on bail. Earlier in the day, the Indian Supreme Court granted him interim bail till June 1. Videos showed firecrackers being burst outside his residence. Kejriwal addressed a large gathering of his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supporters after he reached his official residence. "I am back," he said. "It feels nice to be in front of you all. I told you that I would return soon. I am back." "I want to thank all of you. You gave me your blessings. I want to thank the judges of the Supreme Court, it is because of them that I am in front of you. We have to save the country from dictatorship," he added. Also read: Delhi Court charges Brij Bhushan Singh with sexual harassment of female wrestlers On his release, MP Swati Maliwal said, "On behalf of the people of the country, I wholeheartedly thank the Supreme Court. Arvind Kejriwal ji did amazing work in Delhi and Punjab. "Today when he has been released from jail, there is a wave of happiness and hope in the entire country which will definitely translate into votes. We will win with a huge margin." #WATCH | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal addresses party workers after being released from Tihar jail. CM Kejriwal says, "Tomorrow at 11 am we will go to the Hanuman Temple at Connaught Place and at 1 pm, we will address a press conference at the party office." The Supreme Court… pic.twitter.com/76ij5KZ4iw — ANI (@ANI) May 10, 2024 × Arvind Kejriwal's arrest The AAP supremo was arrested on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022. Corruption allegations were levelled against the party. AAP denies the allegations. The investigating agencies have said that the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy. The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits. The Delhi chief minister even challenged his arrest by the ED, but it was rejected by the Delhi High Court. (With inputs from agencies)

'I am back': Arvind Kejriwal receives warm welcome as he walks out of jail on bail - WATCH

Some of the other political updates that are coming in from India where the Indian Supreme Court will look into the possibility of granting interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to allow him to campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. Former Delhi Congress Chief Arvinder Singh Lovely had joined the BJP just days after he stepped down from the post.

Indian elections 2024: Former Delhi Congress Chief joins BJP

Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Tuesday (Apr 30) revealed the reason behind Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha's striking absence amid the party crisis, which began after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.

Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Tuesday (Apr 30) revealed the reason behind Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha's striking absence amid the party crisis, which began after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case pertaining to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. Chadha, AAP's MP from Punjab, has been missing from the party's campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections. Bharadwaj said that Chadha has undergone major eye surgery in the United Kingdom and will join the party's Lok Sabha poll campaigning once he feels better. He added that the MP had developed a serious eye ailment which could have led to blindness. Also read: ‘Informed Pak about Balakot strike before media’: PM Modi highlights his ‘fight from front’ policy Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also said that Chadha will campaign for the party for the general assembly elections. "Raghav Chadha has undergone a major eye surgery in the UK. It is said that his condition was serious and there was a possibility of blindness. As soon as he gets better, he will come back to India and join us in the election campaigning," Bharadwaj told PTI Videos. Also read: ‘CM post not ceremonial’: Delhi HC says Arvind Kejriwal’s incarceration, absence must not impact students Watch this report on Prajwal Revanna case × On being asked about Chadha joining the election campaign, Mann said, "He will campaign." "There are 11 players (in cricket). Then there is the coaching staff, people who bowl and bat in the nets and four extra players. Everyone is fulfilling their responsibilities," he said while speaking to reporters after his meeting with Kejriwal in Tihar jail. "We have an organisation and whoever is assigned some duty, they will do it. On June 4, AAP will emerge as a strong political power," Mann added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Could’ve lost eyesight’: Reason behind Raghav Chadha’s striking absence amid party crisis

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Apr 27) targeted the Centre as he filed his response to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) affidavit in the Supreme Court, stating that his arrest in the liquor policy case is illegal. He called the arrest an "unprecedented assault" on the democracy.&nbsp;

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo further noted that there were no proof or material evidence that the AAP received funds or advanced kickbacks from the South group.&nbsp;

"Not a single rupee was traced back to the AAP, and the allegations put forth in this regard are devoid of any tangible evidence, rendering them vague, baseless without any corroboration," Kejriwal's affidavit read.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-mamata-banerjee-suffers-injury-after-she-fell-while-boarding-helicopter-715678">VIDEO: Mamata Banerjee suffers injury after she fell while boarding helicopter</a>&nbsp;

Targeting the centre, the Delhi chief minister told India's top court that the ongoing case of money laundering&nbsp;is a "classic" example of how the government misuses probe agencies such as ED.&nbsp;

ED has already filed an affidavit opposing Kejriwal's plea, which challenged his arrest by the&nbsp;agency on March 21. He is currently in judicial custody.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-files-complaint-against-pm-modi-over-spreading-misinformation-about-south-goa-candidate-fernandes-715490">Congress files complaint against PM Modi over spreading 'misinformation' about South Goa candidate Fernandes</a>&nbsp;

Kejriwal also alleged in the affidavit that the ED "illegally" arrested him just days after the General Elections were notified and the Model Code of Conduct was put in place.&nbsp;

Kejriwal said, "During an election cycle when political activity is at its highest, the Petitioner's illegal arrest has caused grave prejudice to the Petitioner's political party, and will provide the ruling party at the Centre an unjust upper hand in the ongoing elections."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Taranjit Singh Sandhu speaks to WION on US-India ties&nbsp;

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<h2>Arvind Kejriwal's health&nbsp;</h2>

A five-member medical board, which was set up on Delhi High Court's instruction, advised Kejriwal to maintain his insulin dosage of two units while in prison, local media reported citing sources. The medical board confirmed that Kejriwal's health was "completely okay".&nbsp;

"The board asked Arvind Kejriwal to continue the same medicines that he was already taking. Kejriwal was asked to continue the dose of two units of insulin in jail", officials said as quoted in reports.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Apr 27) targeted the Centre as he filed his response to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) affidavit in the Supreme Court, stating that his arrest in the liquor policy case is illegal.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Apr 27) targeted the Centre as he filed his response to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) affidavit in the Supreme Court, stating that his arrest in the liquor policy case is illegal. He called the arrest an "unprecedented assault" on the democracy. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo further noted that there were no proof or material evidence that the AAP received funds or advanced kickbacks from the South group. "Not a single rupee was traced back to the AAP, and the allegations put forth in this regard are devoid of any tangible evidence, rendering them vague, baseless without any corroboration," Kejriwal's affidavit read. Also read: VIDEO: Mamata Banerjee suffers injury after she fell while boarding helicopter Targeting the centre, the Delhi chief minister told India's top court that the ongoing case of money laundering is a "classic" example of how the government misuses probe agencies such as ED. ED has already filed an affidavit opposing Kejriwal's plea, which challenged his arrest by the agency on March 21. He is currently in judicial custody. Also read: Congress files complaint against PM Modi over spreading 'misinformation' about South Goa candidate Fernandes Kejriwal also alleged in the affidavit that the ED "illegally" arrested him just days after the General Elections were notified and the Model Code of Conduct was put in place. Kejriwal said, "During an election cycle when political activity is at its highest, the Petitioner's illegal arrest has caused grave prejudice to the Petitioner's political party, and will provide the ruling party at the Centre an unjust upper hand in the ongoing elections." Watch: Taranjit Singh Sandhu speaks to WION on US-India ties × Arvind Kejriwal's health A five-member medical board, which was set up on Delhi High Court's instruction, advised Kejriwal to maintain his insulin dosage of two units while in prison, local media reported citing sources. The medical board confirmed that Kejriwal's health was "completely okay". "The board asked Arvind Kejriwal to continue the same medicines that he was already taking. Kejriwal was asked to continue the dose of two units of insulin in jail", officials said as quoted in reports. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal files response in SC in liquor policy case, calls arrest 'illegal'

Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday (Apr 18) questioned Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Amanatullah Khan in a money laundering case related to "illegal recruitment" by the Delhi Waqf Board. Earlier in the day, Khan had appeared before the federal agency for questioning.&nbsp;Late evening, some AAP leaders claimed that Khan was arrested.&nbsp;

However, he told the media, "I was called (by ED) for questioning, Supreme Court had directed me to appear so I had come at 11:00 am. I was questioned and my statement was recorded and now I am leaving." A video shared on ANI showed Khan reaching his residence after appearing before the ED.&nbsp;

He also said, "I appeared before ED for questioning. Supreme Court had told me to join the investigation on 18th April. I was questioned for 12-13 hours and I gave proper answers to all the questions they asked."&nbsp;

This comes after the Supreme Court refused to entertain his anticipatory bail plea on Monday. The bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta asked Khan to appear before ED on April 18 at 11:00 am (IST).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cabinet-minister-atishi-accuses-bjp-of-plotting-to-kill-kejriwal-712651">Delhi cabinet minister Atishi accuses BJP of plotting to kill Kejriwal</a>&nbsp;

Earlier, AAP leader Sanjay Singh claimed: "This matter has been going on since 2016 and the CBI filed a chargesheet and Amanatullah Khan was not arrested."&nbsp;

"Even the court told ED that it has no proof against Amanatullah Khan, despite this, he is being arrested. This conspiracy has been created to dismantle the Delhi government and break the party," he said.&nbsp;

Targeting the Centre, Singh further said, "I want to tell this to PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah in very clear words that their Operation Lotus will not be successful in Delhi."&nbsp;

"Your dictatorship will end soon. This matter has been going on since 2016 and the CBI filed a chargesheet and Amanatullah Khan was not arrested," he added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: AAP MP Sanjay Singh says, "I want to tell this to PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah in very clear words that their Operation Lotus will not be successful in Delhi... Your dictatorship will end soon. This matter has been going on since 2016 and the CBI filed a… <a href="https://t.co/7DcTVKirTK">pic.twitter.com/7DcTVKirTK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1781015027354595687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-election-commission-rejects-claims-over-evm-error-that-favoured-bjp-712625">Indian election commission rejects claims over EVM error that 'favoured' BJP</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What's the case about?&nbsp;</h2>

Recently, the government agency filed a charge sheet against four people and one firm in a case of alleged money laundering at the Delhi Waqf Board. The case is of the time when Amanatullah Khan was the chairman.&nbsp;

The case is related to the purchase of a property worth Rs 36 crore in the Okhla area at the alleged behest of Khan, who is also a sitting MLA from that area, the ED said.&nbsp;

ED had recently filed a charge sheet against four accused persons, including Qausar Imam Siddiqui. The court has dismissed the bail application of the three accused namely Zeeshan Haider, Daud Nasir, and Jawed Imam Siddiqui in this case.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday (Apr 18) questioned Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Amanatullah Khan in a money laundering case related to "illegal recruitment" by the Delhi Waqf Board.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday (Apr 18) questioned Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Amanatullah Khan in a money laundering case related to "illegal recruitment" by the Delhi Waqf Board. Earlier in the day, Khan had appeared before the federal agency for questioning. Late evening, some AAP leaders claimed that Khan was arrested. However, he told the media, "I was called (by ED) for questioning, Supreme Court had directed me to appear so I had come at 11:00 am. I was questioned and my statement was recorded and now I am leaving." A video shared on ANI showed Khan reaching his residence after appearing before the ED. He also said, "I appeared before ED for questioning. Supreme Court had told me to join the investigation on 18th April. I was questioned for 12-13 hours and I gave proper answers to all the questions they asked." This comes after the Supreme Court refused to entertain his anticipatory bail plea on Monday. The bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta asked Khan to appear before ED on April 18 at 11:00 am (IST). Also read: Delhi cabinet minister Atishi accuses BJP of plotting to kill Kejriwal Earlier, AAP leader Sanjay Singh claimed: "This matter has been going on since 2016 and the CBI filed a chargesheet and Amanatullah Khan was not arrested." "Even the court told ED that it has no proof against Amanatullah Khan, despite this, he is being arrested. This conspiracy has been created to dismantle the Delhi government and break the party," he said. Targeting the Centre, Singh further said, "I want to tell this to PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah in very clear words that their Operation Lotus will not be successful in Delhi." "Your dictatorship will end soon. This matter has been going on since 2016 and the CBI filed a chargesheet and Amanatullah Khan was not arrested," he added. #WATCH | Delhi: AAP MP Sanjay Singh says, "I want to tell this to PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah in very clear words that their Operation Lotus will not be successful in Delhi... Your dictatorship will end soon. This matter has been going on since 2016 and the CBI filed a… pic.twitter.com/7DcTVKirTK — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2024 × Also read: Indian election commission rejects claims over EVM error that 'favoured' BJP What's the case about? Recently, the government agency filed a charge sheet against four people and one firm in a case of alleged money laundering at the Delhi Waqf Board. The case is of the time when Amanatullah Khan was the chairman. The case is related to the purchase of a property worth Rs 36 crore in the Okhla area at the alleged behest of Khan, who is also a sitting MLA from that area, the ED said. ED had recently filed a charge sheet against four accused persons, including Qausar Imam Siddiqui. The court has dismissed the bail application of the three accused namely Zeeshan Haider, Daud Nasir, and Jawed Imam Siddiqui in this case. (With inputs from agencies)

Waqf Board Case: ED questions Amanatullah Khan, AAP attacks Centre

Bibhav Kumar, the personal secretary of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was fired by the Directorate of Vigilance of the Government of Delhi on Thursday (Apr 11).

<h2>The Vigilance Department order&nbsp;</h2>

"Consequent upon the resignation of the Council of Ministers notified vide dated 14.02.2020 the term of the government has ended, and being a coterminous officer, the appointment of Bibhav Kumar will also have to be terminated," read the order.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-petitions-supreme-court-against-ed-arrest-709632">Supreme Court may hear Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's petition against ED arrest on April 15</a>

"However, in terms of DOPT OM dated 26.05.2014, the personal staff of the outgoing Minister can continue to hold their post for a period not exceeding 15 days," it added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: Jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's personal assistant, Bibhav Kumar, has been terminated from his services by the Directorate of Vigilance Department for obstructing Government work and threatening a public servant in Noida, UP in 2007. <a href="https://t.co/DKM9Jn42qy">pic.twitter.com/DKM9Jn42qy</a>
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdityaRajKaul/status/1778264539907383335?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The order adds that since the "honourable CM" wants Kumar to continue working with him as his personal secretary, "to consider his fresh appointment, the earlier term of coterminous appointment shall have to be terminated first."

"Hence, the services of Bibhav Kumar may be terminated wef 16.02.2020 (A/N) and thereafter, his appointment as Private Secretary to CM wef 17.02.2020 (F/N) may be considered."

<h2>AAP reacts</h2>

Slamming the Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party over Bibhav Kumar's termination, AAP party leader Jasmine Shah alleged that democracy is being dismantled in the national capital.

Calling the Delhi liquor case "fake", Shah alleged that the sole aim of BJP was to "finish AAP".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-dismisses-kejriwals-plea-for-more-time-with-lawyers-says-rules-apply-equally-to-all-709885">Delhi Court rejects Arvind Kejriwal’s request for additional time with lawyers</a>

"First the Delhi CM is arrested in the fake Delhi liquor case. Now, the LG has started sacking his entire staff including his Pvt Secretary. There is no doubt left that BJP's sole aim is to finish AAP. Democracy is being dismantled in the national capital," said Shah, as quoted by media reports.

The termination comes after the Enforcement Directorate on Monday (Apr 8) questioned Bibhav Kumar along with AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak, in connection with the money-laundering case linked to the excise policy. Arvind Kejriwal has been in judicial custody since March 21. His remand is set to continue until April 15.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bibhav Kumar, the personal secretary of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was fired by the Directorate of Vigilance of the Government of Delhi on Thursday (Apr 11).

Bibhav Kumar, the personal secretary of jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was fired by the Directorate of Vigilance of the Government of Delhi on Thursday (Apr 11). The Vigilance Department order "Consequent upon the resignation of the Council of Ministers notified vide dated 14.02.2020 the term of the government has ended, and being a coterminous officer, the appointment of Bibhav Kumar will also have to be terminated," read the order. Also read | Supreme Court may hear Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's petition against ED arrest on April 15 "However, in terms of DOPT OM dated 26.05.2014, the personal staff of the outgoing Minister can continue to hold their post for a period not exceeding 15 days," it added. #BREAKING: Jailed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's personal assistant, Bibhav Kumar, has been terminated from his services by the Directorate of Vigilance Department for obstructing Government work and threatening a public servant in Noida, UP in 2007. pic.twitter.com/DKM9Jn42qy — Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) April 11, 2024 × The order adds that since the "honourable CM" wants Kumar to continue working with him as his personal secretary, "to consider his fresh appointment, the earlier term of coterminous appointment shall have to be terminated first." "Hence, the services of Bibhav Kumar may be terminated wef 16.02.2020 (A/N) and thereafter, his appointment as Private Secretary to CM wef 17.02.2020 (F/N) may be considered." AAP reacts Slamming the Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party over Bibhav Kumar's termination, AAP party leader Jasmine Shah alleged that democracy is being dismantled in the national capital. Calling the Delhi liquor case "fake", Shah alleged that the sole aim of BJP was to "finish AAP". Also read | Delhi Court rejects Arvind Kejriwal’s request for additional time with lawyers "First the Delhi CM is arrested in the fake Delhi liquor case. Now, the LG has started sacking his entire staff including his Pvt Secretary. There is no doubt left that BJP's sole aim is to finish AAP. Democracy is being dismantled in the national capital," said Shah, as quoted by media reports. The termination comes after the Enforcement Directorate on Monday (Apr 8) questioned Bibhav Kumar along with AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak, in connection with the money-laundering case linked to the excise policy. Arvind Kejriwal has been in judicial custody since March 21. His remand is set to continue until April 15. (With inputs from agencies)

AAP accuses BJP of trying to 'finish' party after Vigilance Department fires Kejriwal's private secretary

Aam Admi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Saturday (Apr 6) hit out at the Enforcement Directorate stating that the probe agency has established no money trail in the Delhi excise policy scam probe, yet it arrested AAP leaders on the basis of mere doubt.

She then asked the ED to take stern action against BJP leaders over alleged money laundering.

The Delhi minister also accused the BJP of filing false cases against AAP through central agencies like ED, the Central Bureau of Investigation, and the Income Tax and Election Commission.

Her remarks come following a showcause notice sent by the Election Commission on Friday (Apr 5) over her claims where she alleged that the BJP, through one of her close aides, approached her to join the saffron party or else be ready to be arrested by ED within a month.

"ED has been investigating the money trail in this so-called liquor scam. ED is still investigating the money trail linked to any leader of AAP, but they didn't get a single penny of proceeds from crime from any AAP leader," Aishi said during a presser on Saturday.

"The Supreme Court has continuously asked ED, where is the money trail linked to AAP?... But ED has no answer for this. Justice Sanjiv Khanna says the money trail has not been proven, it's debatable. But many AAP leaders have been arrested under this case even after no money trail," she said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ec-sends-notice-to-aap-leader-atishi-over-bjp-poaching-attempt-claim-708099">India: EC sends notice to AAP leader Atishi over BJP poaching attempt claim</a>

“On the basis of mere doubt, the ED arrested AAP leaders Sanjay Singh, Manish Sisodia, and even the national convener of our party Arvind Kejriwal ji, even as no money trail was found against them."

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ED अगर सही मायने में एक स्वतंत्र एजेंसी है तो इन 5 सवालों का जवाब दे: 
 
1. शराब घोटाले में money trail का पुख़्ता सबूत मिले 16 दिन बीत गये, 55 करोड़ का money trail शराब कारोबारियों से भाजपा तक जाता है; ED ने इसकी क्या जाँच की है? 
 
2. ⁠2 साल से AAP के किसी भी नेता पर money trail… <a href="https://t.co/IMBq5DZyRo">https://t.co/IMBq5DZyRo</a>
— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1776566167949467771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

“What action has the ED taken against the BJP leaders where the investigation agency has been able to establish a money trail,” she asked.

During the press conference, she also accused the BJP of using the central probe agencies to target the opposition.

"BJP files all kinds of false cases against AAP &amp; its leader, Arvind Kejriwal, through agencies under them like the ED, CBI, I-T and Election Commission of India. The case of Goa was also similar when the ECI sent a notice to Arvind Kejriwal on the complaint filed by the BJP. But, yesterday, the Goa Court dismissed the case, citing it as baseless," she alleged.

"I want to say to the BJP that if they want to face AAP politically, then they shouldn't try to fight the elections by hiding behind the agencies. If you have the courage, then come forward and fight the elections based on your work," the AAP leader said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aam Admi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Saturday (Apr 6) hit out at the Enforcement Directorate stating that the probe agency has established no money trail in the Delhi excise policy scam probe, yet it arrested AAP leaders on the basis of mere doubt.

Aam Admi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Saturday (Apr 6) hit out at the Enforcement Directorate stating that the probe agency has established no money trail in the Delhi excise policy scam probe, yet it arrested AAP leaders on the basis of mere doubt. She then asked the ED to take stern action against BJP leaders over alleged money laundering. The Delhi minister also accused the BJP of filing false cases against AAP through central agencies like ED, the Central Bureau of Investigation, and the Income Tax and Election Commission. Her remarks come following a showcause notice sent by the Election Commission on Friday (Apr 5) over her claims where she alleged that the BJP, through one of her close aides, approached her to join the saffron party or else be ready to be arrested by ED within a month. "ED has been investigating the money trail in this so-called liquor scam. ED is still investigating the money trail linked to any leader of AAP, but they didn't get a single penny of proceeds from crime from any AAP leader," Aishi said during a presser on Saturday. "The Supreme Court has continuously asked ED, where is the money trail linked to AAP?... But ED has no answer for this. Justice Sanjiv Khanna says the money trail has not been proven, it's debatable. But many AAP leaders have been arrested under this case even after no money trail," she said. Also read: India: EC sends notice to AAP leader Atishi over BJP poaching attempt claim “On the basis of mere doubt, the ED arrested AAP leaders Sanjay Singh, Manish Sisodia, and even the national convener of our party Arvind Kejriwal ji, even as no money trail was found against them." ED अगर सही मायने में एक स्वतंत्र एजेंसी है तो इन 5 सवालों का जवाब दे: 1. शराब घोटाले में money trail का पुख़्ता सबूत मिले 16 दिन बीत गये, 55 करोड़ का money trail शराब कारोबारियों से भाजपा तक जाता है; ED ने इसकी क्या जाँच की है? 2. ⁠2 साल से AAP के किसी भी नेता पर money trail… https://t.co/IMBq5DZyRo — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) April 6, 2024 × “What action has the ED taken against the BJP leaders where the investigation agency has been able to establish a money trail,” she asked. During the press conference, she also accused the BJP of using the central probe agencies to target the opposition. "BJP files all kinds of false cases against AAP & its leader, Arvind Kejriwal, through agencies under them like the ED, CBI, I-T and Election Commission of India. The case of Goa was also similar when the ECI sent a notice to Arvind Kejriwal on the complaint filed by the BJP. But, yesterday, the Goa Court dismissed the case, citing it as baseless," she alleged. "I want to say to the BJP that if they want to face AAP politically, then they shouldn't try to fight the elections by hiding behind the agencies. If you have the courage, then come forward and fight the elections based on your work," the AAP leader said. (With inputs from agencies)

After EC notice, AAP’s Atishi slams ED, asks agency to take action against BJP over ‘money laundering’

Watch in Top Headlines of the hour: - Delhi Deputy CM's custody extended - Slovakia votes in Presidential polls - Fresh peace talks begin in Cairo - Iran, Hezbollah turn up heat on Israel

Delhi Deputy CM's custody extended | Slovakia votes in Presidential polls

The Supreme Court granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh in the Delhi excise policy case on Tuesday, after the Enforcement Directorate told the top court that it has "no objection" to his bail.

Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh walks out of jail after 6 months, vows to challenge BJP

AAP MP Sanjay Singh gets bail after six months in jail in Delhi Liquor Policy case

India: Supreme Court grants bail to AAP MP Sanjay Singh

India: AAP MP Sanjay Singh gets bail from Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Apr 2) granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh in the Delhi liquor policy case.&nbsp;

A bench of the apex court, as per reports, directed that Singh be released on bail on terms and conditions set by the trial court.&nbsp;

"We direct that Sanjay Singh be released on bail on terms and conditions fixed by the trial court. We clarify that the concession given today will not be treated as a precedence. He will be allowed to continue with his political activities." 
 
The ED had said that it does&nbsp;not object to granting bail to Singh during the pendency of proceedings under sections 3 and 4 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

<h2>Sanjay Singh in jail since October 2023</h2>

The bench comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice Dipankar Datta, and Justice P B Varale questioned the Enforcement Directorate (ED) about the need for further custody of Singh.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-aap-leader-atishi-claims-was-told-join-bjp-or-else-ahead-of-2024-lok-sabha-election-706799">Watch | AAP leader Atishi claims was told join BJP 'or else...', ruling party reacts</a>

Hearing Singh's plea challenging his arrest and remand by the ED, the Supreme Court noted that Singh had already spent six months in jail.

The bench told Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing on behalf of the ED, that no money had been recovered from Singh's possession and suggested that the allegation of him receiving a ₹2 crore ($239,887) bribe could be examined during the trial.&nbsp;

Singh was arrested by the ED on October 4 last year.

Previously, in the high court, the AAP leader had applied for bail, citing that he had been in custody for over three months and that no role had been attributed to him in the predicate offence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-in-tihar-jail-new-bank-account-five-visitors-medical-check-ups-and-more-706813">Arvind Kejriwal turns Undertrial no. 670: With books, bank account and medical check ups</a>

However, the probe agency ED at the time opposed Singh's bail plea, alleging his involvement in acquiring, possessing, concealing, dissipating, and using proceeds of crime related to the Delhi liquor scam during the 2021-22 policy period.&nbsp;

The ED also claimed that Singh had illicitly gained money or kickbacks from the liquor policy scam and had conspired with others.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Apr 2) granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh in the Delhi liquor policy case. A bench of the apex court, as per reports, directed that Singh be released on bail on terms and conditions set by the trial court.

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Apr 2) granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh in the Delhi liquor policy case. A bench of the apex court, as per reports, directed that Singh be released on bail on terms and conditions set by the trial court. "We direct that Sanjay Singh be released on bail on terms and conditions fixed by the trial court. We clarify that the concession given today will not be treated as a precedence. He will be allowed to continue with his political activities." The ED had said that it does not object to granting bail to Singh during the pendency of proceedings under sections 3 and 4 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Sanjay Singh in jail since October 2023 The bench comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice Dipankar Datta, and Justice P B Varale questioned the Enforcement Directorate (ED) about the need for further custody of Singh. Also read | Watch | AAP leader Atishi claims was told join BJP 'or else...', ruling party reacts Hearing Singh's plea challenging his arrest and remand by the ED, the Supreme Court noted that Singh had already spent six months in jail. The bench told Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing on behalf of the ED, that no money had been recovered from Singh's possession and suggested that the allegation of him receiving a ₹2 crore ($239,887) bribe could be examined during the trial. Singh was arrested by the ED on October 4 last year. Previously, in the high court, the AAP leader had applied for bail, citing that he had been in custody for over three months and that no role had been attributed to him in the predicate offence. Also read | Arvind Kejriwal turns Undertrial no. 670: With books, bank account and medical check ups However, the probe agency ED at the time opposed Singh's bail plea, alleging his involvement in acquiring, possessing, concealing, dissipating, and using proceeds of crime related to the Delhi liquor scam during the 2021-22 policy period. The ED also claimed that Singh had illicitly gained money or kickbacks from the liquor policy scam and had conspired with others. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi liquor policy case: Supreme Court grants bail to AAP MP Sanjay Singh after ED says it has no objection

Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Monday (Apr 1) posted on social media that she would be doing an "explosive expose" at 10:00&nbsp;am (IST) on Tuesday, with many left speculating that it could be linked to the alleged excise policy case.&nbsp;

The post came just a few hours after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-name-two-aap-ministers-in-liquor-policy-case-706549">Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal</a> was sent to jail. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Kejriwal from his residence on March 21. The custody ended on April 1 but a local court sent him to jail till April 15.&nbsp;

The Indian law enforcement agency presented Kejriwal in Delhi's Rouse Avenue court on Monday and told the court that Kejriwal has named AAP leaders and state ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj during questioning.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-gets-fresh-income-tax-department-notice-report-706341">India's Congress party gets fresh income tax department notice: Report</a>&nbsp;

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I will be doing an explosive exposé at 10am tmrw. 
 
Watch this space…
— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1774773612282617898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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ED also said that Kejriwal provided false and contradictory evidence (regarding) other members of (his) AAP" during the interrogation. The agency also said that Kejriwal did not reveal the passwords of his digital devices.&nbsp;

According to the probe agency, Kejriwal said that Vijay Nair, one of the accused in the liquor policy case, didn't report to him but to Atishi and Bharadwaj. Nair is the former communication in charge of the AAP.&nbsp;

AAP leader Jasmine Shah said that ED's claim "made me laugh". Shah further added that when Nair was first detained, he already revealed that he did not report to Kejriwal.&nbsp;

"Vijay Nair had said this when he was detained. Vijay Nair had said that I do not report to the Chief Minister, but to Atishi and Saurabh Bhardwaj. Now the question arises why ED gave the same statement after one-and-a-half years?" Shah asked.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pawar-versus-pawar-in-baramati-bjp-fields-sunetra-pawar-supriya-sule-calls-it-dirty-politics-706529">Pawar versus Pawar in Baramati: BJP fields Sunetra Pawar, Supriya Sule calls it 'dirty politics'</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What's the case all about?&nbsp;</h2>

The liquor policy case pertains to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy.&nbsp;The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021.&nbsp;It was, however, scrapped at the end of September 2022 amid allegations of corruption, which AAP denies.&nbsp;

The profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy,&nbsp;the investigating agencies have claimed.&nbsp;

The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Monday (Apr 1) posted on social media that she would be doing an "explosive expose" at 10:00 am (IST) on Tuesday, with many left speculating that it could be linked to the alleged excise policy case.

Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Monday (Apr 1) posted on social media that she would be doing an "explosive expose" at 10:00 am (IST) on Tuesday, with many left speculating that it could be linked to the alleged excise policy case. The post came just a few hours after Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal was sent to jail. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Kejriwal from his residence on March 21. The custody ended on April 1 but a local court sent him to jail till April 15. The Indian law enforcement agency presented Kejriwal in Delhi's Rouse Avenue court on Monday and told the court that Kejriwal has named AAP leaders and state ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj during questioning. Also read: India's Congress party gets fresh income tax department notice: Report I will be doing an explosive exposé at 10am tmrw. Watch this space… — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) April 1, 2024 × ED also said that Kejriwal provided false and contradictory evidence (regarding) other members of (his) AAP" during the interrogation. The agency also said that Kejriwal did not reveal the passwords of his digital devices. According to the probe agency, Kejriwal said that Vijay Nair, one of the accused in the liquor policy case, didn't report to him but to Atishi and Bharadwaj. Nair is the former communication in charge of the AAP. AAP leader Jasmine Shah said that ED's claim "made me laugh". Shah further added that when Nair was first detained, he already revealed that he did not report to Kejriwal. "Vijay Nair had said this when he was detained. Vijay Nair had said that I do not report to the Chief Minister, but to Atishi and Saurabh Bhardwaj. Now the question arises why ED gave the same statement after one-and-a-half years?" Shah asked. Also read: Pawar versus Pawar in Baramati: BJP fields Sunetra Pawar, Supriya Sule calls it 'dirty politics' What's the case all about? The liquor policy case pertains to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy. The Delhi government had implemented the policy on November 17, 2021. It was, however, scrapped at the end of September 2022 amid allegations of corruption, which AAP denies. The profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy, the investigating agencies have claimed. The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits. (With inputs from agencies)

Senior AAP leader Atishi says she will do ‘explosive expose’ on April 2

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Over a dozen opposition leaders came together at New Delhi's historic Ramlila Maidan on Sunday (March 31) over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kejriwal-arrest-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-arrested-last-night-703318">arrest</a> of&nbsp;Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party co-founder Arvind Kejriwal's by Enforcement Directorate in the liquor policy scam case. The leaders of Aam Aadmi Party managed to keep the mega rally's focus on Arvind Kejriwal amid the rallying calls by all opposition leaders to 'save the constitution and constitutional values'.&nbsp;

Over a decade ago, it was at Ramlila Maidan where Arvind Kejriwal took oath as Delhi Chief Minister after organising massive protests against corruption at the same grounds. As&nbsp;Kejriwal himself is in jail now, on corruption charges, his&nbsp;Aam Aadmi Party deployed his wife Sunita Kejriwal for political messaging at the INDI Alliance rally on Sunday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/they-wont-keep-kejriwal-in-jail-for-long-delhi-cms-wife-lists-six-guarantees-on-behalf-of-india-bloc-706201">They won't keep Kejriwal in jail for long: Delhi CM's wife lists six guarantees on behalf of INDIA bloc</a>

Quoting Arvind Kejriwal, Sunita Kejriwal said, "I am not asking for votes today... I invite 140 crore Indians to make a new India... India is a great nation with thousands of years old civilisation... I think about Mother India from inside the jail and she is in pain... Let's make a new India... If INDIA Alliance is given an opportunity, we will build a new India... I present 6 guarantees on behalf of INDIA Alliance. First, there will be no power cuts in the whole country. Second, electricity would be free for the poor people. Third, we will make government schools in every village. Fourth, we will make Mohalla Clinics in every village. We will make a multi-speciality government hospital in every district. Everyone would get free treatment. Fifth, farmers would be given the correct price for the crops. Sixth, the people of Delhi have faced injustice for 75 years... We will give statehood to Delhi... We will complete these 6 guarantees in 5 years. I have made all the planning from where the money for these guarantees will come..."

Sunita was seen sharing a moment of bonhomie with senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi as she reached the stage&nbsp;at Ramlila Maidan about two hours after the event began.&nbsp;

But the contradictions within the Opposition — which has banded as Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) to purportedly&nbsp;de-seat Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power&nbsp;— were visible in the Indian capital at the cusp of election summer.

"It is time that one party and one person's government have to go," Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) said, a sentiment repeated by his alliance colleagues such as former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Mehbooba Mufti and Farooq Abdullah.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian elections 2024 | PM Modi's rally in Meerut, I.N.D.I.A bloc rally in Delhi

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The Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee was conspicuously absent from the rally, and the West Bengal chief minister's party was represented by Rajya Sabha MPs Derek O'Brien and Sagarika Ghose. Given the photographic symbolism of the event, O'Brien chose to move away from CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechuri, the arch rival of TMC, besides whom he was initially seated.&nbsp;

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that the BJP won't be able to win more than 180 seats if it chooses to give up what he described as 'high-handedness through ED, CBI, and Income Tax departments' against the Opposition leaders.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi's sister and Congress General-Secretary Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra called for the release of arrested leaders of 'INDIA' bloc including Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Over a dozen opposition leaders came together at New Delhi's historic Ramlila Maidan on Sunday (March 31) over the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party co-founder Arvind Kejriwal's by Enforcement Directorate in the liquor policy scam case.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Over a dozen opposition leaders came together at New Delhi's historic Ramlila Maidan on Sunday (March 31) over the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party co-founder Arvind Kejriwal's by Enforcement Directorate in the liquor policy scam case. The leaders of Aam Aadmi Party managed to keep the mega rally's focus on Arvind Kejriwal amid the rallying calls by all opposition leaders to 'save the constitution and constitutional values'. Over a decade ago, it was at Ramlila Maidan where Arvind Kejriwal took oath as Delhi Chief Minister after organising massive protests against corruption at the same grounds. As Kejriwal himself is in jail now, on corruption charges, his Aam Aadmi Party deployed his wife Sunita Kejriwal for political messaging at the INDI Alliance rally on Sunday. Also read | They won't keep Kejriwal in jail for long: Delhi CM's wife lists six guarantees on behalf of INDIA bloc Quoting Arvind Kejriwal, Sunita Kejriwal said, "I am not asking for votes today... I invite 140 crore Indians to make a new India... India is a great nation with thousands of years old civilisation... I think about Mother India from inside the jail and she is in pain... Let's make a new India... If INDIA Alliance is given an opportunity, we will build a new India... I present 6 guarantees on behalf of INDIA Alliance. First, there will be no power cuts in the whole country. Second, electricity would be free for the poor people. Third, we will make government schools in every village. Fourth, we will make Mohalla Clinics in every village. We will make a multi-speciality government hospital in every district. Everyone would get free treatment. Fifth, farmers would be given the correct price for the crops. Sixth, the people of Delhi have faced injustice for 75 years... We will give statehood to Delhi... We will complete these 6 guarantees in 5 years. I have made all the planning from where the money for these guarantees will come..." Sunita was seen sharing a moment of bonhomie with senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi as she reached the stage at Ramlila Maidan about two hours after the event began. But the contradictions within the Opposition — which has banded as Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) to purportedly de-seat Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power — were visible in the Indian capital at the cusp of election summer. "It is time that one party and one person's government have to go," Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) said, a sentiment repeated by his alliance colleagues such as former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Mehbooba Mufti and Farooq Abdullah. Also watch | Indian elections 2024 | PM Modi's rally in Meerut, I.N.D.I.A bloc rally in Delhi × The Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee was conspicuously absent from the rally, and the West Bengal chief minister's party was represented by Rajya Sabha MPs Derek O'Brien and Sagarika Ghose. Given the photographic symbolism of the event, O'Brien chose to move away from CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechuri, the arch rival of TMC, besides whom he was initially seated. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that the BJP won't be able to win more than 180 seats if it chooses to give up what he described as 'high-handedness through ED, CBI, and Income Tax departments' against the Opposition leaders. Rahul Gandhi's sister and Congress General-Secretary Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra called for the release of arrested leaders of 'INDIA' bloc including Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren. (With inputs from agencies)

Opposition unites at INDIA bloc rally over Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest to take on BJP in polls

Punjab chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Bhagwant Singh Mann and his wife, Dr Gurpreet Kaur, were blessed with a daughter on Thursday. Bhagwant Mann is the 17th Chief minister of Punjab and has been in the office since 2022.

India: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, wife blessed with a baby girl

The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday sought seven days extension of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's custodial remand from Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court in the excise policy case.

Arvind Kejriwal arrest: Kejriwal tells court, 'ED has only one mission - to trap me'

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to convene on Wednesday (Mar&nbsp;27)&nbsp;to address a petition filed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Kejriwal seeks his immediate release in connection with a money-laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam.

Kejriwal's petition, asserting the illegality of his arrest and subsequent detention by the ED, is set for hearing before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma at 10:30 am. The ED detained the Delhi chief minister shortly after the high court declined to shield him from coercive measures by the federal anti-money laundering agency. Following this, a trial court remanded Kejriwal in the ED's custody until March 28.

<h2>Allegations and legal actions</h2>

Previously, Kejriwal had approached the high court to annul all proceedings, including summonses, issued against him. He faces accusations of corruption and money laundering related to the formulation and implementation of Delhi's excise policy for 2021-22, subsequently revoked. Notably, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)&nbsp;leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are under judicial custody in the same case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/excise-police-case-what-are-the-options-available-for-arrested-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-702825">Also read |&nbsp;Excise policy case: What are the options available for arrested Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal?</a>

The ED's allegations assert that the accused collaborated with Kejriwal in devising the excise policy, which allegedly provided undue advantages to them in exchange for kickbacks to the AAP.

The arrest sparked political turmoil, with AAP leaders and supporters attempting to march towards the Prime Minister's residence. Conversely, the BJP staged counter-protests, demanding Kejriwal's resignation.

Despite being in ED custody, Kejriwal issued directives to Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj to address medicine and diagnostic test shortages at mohalla clinics and hospitals in the city. This marks the second directive issued by the chief minister while in ED custody.

Also watch |&nbsp;Arvind Kejriwal Arrest: Delhi court to hear Arvind Kejriwal's plea challenging arrest

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Security measures have been intensified across the national capital, with police deployments around key locations. Approximately 100 people, including AAP leaders and Punjab minister Harjot Singh Bains, were detained during the protests, only to be later released. The BJP also staged protests near Delhi Secretariat, resulting in detentions and the use of water cannons by police to disperse the crowd.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to convene on Wednesday (Mar 27) to address a petition filed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to convene on Wednesday (Mar 27) to address a petition filed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Kejriwal seeks his immediate release in connection with a money-laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam. Kejriwal's petition, asserting the illegality of his arrest and subsequent detention by the ED, is set for hearing before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma at 10:30 am. The ED detained the Delhi chief minister shortly after the high court declined to shield him from coercive measures by the federal anti-money laundering agency. Following this, a trial court remanded Kejriwal in the ED's custody until March 28. Allegations and legal actions Previously, Kejriwal had approached the high court to annul all proceedings, including summonses, issued against him. He faces accusations of corruption and money laundering related to the formulation and implementation of Delhi's excise policy for 2021-22, subsequently revoked. Notably, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are under judicial custody in the same case. Also read | Excise policy case: What are the options available for arrested Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal? The ED's allegations assert that the accused collaborated with Kejriwal in devising the excise policy, which allegedly provided undue advantages to them in exchange for kickbacks to the AAP. The arrest sparked political turmoil, with AAP leaders and supporters attempting to march towards the Prime Minister's residence. Conversely, the BJP staged counter-protests, demanding Kejriwal's resignation. Despite being in ED custody, Kejriwal issued directives to Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj to address medicine and diagnostic test shortages at mohalla clinics and hospitals in the city. This marks the second directive issued by the chief minister while in ED custody. Also watch | Arvind Kejriwal Arrest: Delhi court to hear Arvind Kejriwal's plea challenging arrest Security measures have been intensified across the national capital, with police deployments around key locations. Approximately 100 people, including AAP leaders and Punjab minister Harjot Singh Bains, were detained during the protests, only to be later released. The BJP also staged protests near Delhi Secretariat, resulting in detentions and the use of water cannons by police to disperse the crowd. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi High Court to hear Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against his arrest

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