Delhi Police issued an advisory on Friday (Mar 22) urging commuters to avoid certain routes due to planned protests by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) following the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Delhi Police issued an advisory on Friday (Mar 22) urging commuters to avoid certain routes due to planned protests by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) following the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). What are the routes you should avoid? Delhi Police posted on X, "Traffic Advisory: In view of the proposed protest by Political party at DDU Marg Delhi, Traffic will remain heavy at IP Marg, Vikas Marg, Minto Road and Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg. DDU marg will remain closed for traffic movement. Kindly avoid these roads and plan your journey accordingly." Commuters are advised to steer clear of the following routes until further notice: IP Marg Vikas Marg Minto Road Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg Krishna Menon Marg Motilal Nehru Marg Janpath Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road The ITO Metro station is temporarily closed until 6 pm on Friday on the advice of Delhi Police. DMRC's official account wrote on X, "On advice of Delhi Police, ITO Metro station will remain closed from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM today i.e, 22nd March 2024." Traffic jams Massive traffic jams were witnessed, particularly at ITO, due to heavy security measures and road closures towards the BJP headquarters on Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Marg. Delhi Police has deployed personnel and placed barricades around the BJP headquarters where AAP leaders and workers planned to stage protests against Kejriwal's arrest today. The police intensified border checks to prevent AAP workers from entering Delhi from neighbouring states. AAP's protest plans AAP leaders called on party workers to gather at the BJP headquarters to commence protests at 10 am Friday, condemning Kejriwal's arrest as a "political conspiracy by the BJP".

Delhi police issues traffic advisory in wake of protests following Arvind Kejriwal's arrest: Routes to avoid

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 18) skipped the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier financial intelligence agency, in connection with alleged irregularities in Delhi Jal Board (DJB). Earlier, his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said the summons were “illegal".&nbsp;The ED had asked Kejriwal to be present at its office on APJ Abdul Kalam Road on March 18 for interrogation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

AAP questioned the legality of the summons citing bail order. “When there is bail from the court, why is ED sending summons again and again? ED summons are illegal," it said in a statement.

Meanwhile, on allegations by ED that BRS leader K Kavitha conspired with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other AAP leaders in Delhi Excise policy case, AAP said the union government was 'planting falsehoods every day.'

"On earlier occasions too, ED has released such blatantly false and frivolous statements which show that instead of being a neutral investigative agency, it is working like a political wing of BJP," AAP said in a statement.

<o:p></o:p>

Atishi, a minister in the Delhi government, said the union government was following a ‘backup plan’ to arrest Kejriwal anyhow. "Nobody knows what this Delhi Jal Board (DJB) case is about. This seems to be a backup plan to arrest Kejriwal anyhow and stop him from campaigning in the Lok Sabha polls," said Delhi minister Atishi at a press conference on Sunday (Mar 17).<o:p></o:p>

This comes as Kejriwal faces ED summons and court cases for alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy. Kejriwal has so far skipped eight ED summons in the case, which the AAP says are ‘illegal and illegitimate’. The ED has now asked Kejriwal to appear in the case on March 21.<o:p></o:p>

<h2>What is the DJB case?<o:p></o:p></h2>

In the DJB case, the investigating agency alleges that funds acquired through corruption in a contract awarded by the Delhi government's department were channelled as election funds to the AAP.<o:p></o:p>

In February, the ED carried out raids at the residences of individuals, including Kejriwal's personal assistant, a Rajya Sabha MP from AAP, a former DJB member, a chartered accountant, and others, as part of this investigation.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-grants-bail-to-cm-kejriwal-in-enforcement-directorate-summons-case-700656">Also read:&nbsp;Delhi court grants bail to CM Kejriwal in Enforcement Directorate summons case</a></o:p>

The ED's case is founded on an FIR by another central agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), alleging irregularities in the contract awarded to NKG Infrastructure Ltd. for a sum of Rs 38 crore ($4.6 million), despite the company not meeting the technical eligibility criteria.<o:p></o:p>

The ED has arrested some individuals associated with the contract. However, the AAP has refuted the agency's claims as "false".<o:p></o:p>

<h2>Satyendar Jain's bail rejected<o:p></o:p></h2>

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday (Mar 18) dismissed the regular bail of Satyendar Jain, an ex-minister in the Delhi government detained in a money laundering case.

<o:p>Watch:&nbsp;Delhi: AAP kicks off election campaign in Gujarat, Delhi CM appeals for two candidates</o:p>

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The bench of justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal asked Jain, who is out on interim bail, to surrender forthwith.

<o:p></o:p>

The ED had arrested the AAP leader on May 30, 2022, on the charge of laundering money through four companies allegedly linked to him.

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 18) skipped the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier financial intelligence agency, in connection with alleged irregularities in Delhi Jal Board (DJB).

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Mar 18) skipped the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier financial intelligence agency, in connection with alleged irregularities in Delhi Jal Board (DJB). Earlier, his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said the summons were “illegal". The ED had asked Kejriwal to be present at its office on APJ Abdul Kalam Road on March 18 for interrogation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). AAP questioned the legality of the summons citing bail order. “When there is bail from the court, why is ED sending summons again and again? ED summons are illegal," it said in a statement. Meanwhile, on allegations by ED that BRS leader K Kavitha conspired with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other AAP leaders in Delhi Excise policy case, AAP said the union government was 'planting falsehoods every day.' "On earlier occasions too, ED has released such blatantly false and frivolous statements which show that instead of being a neutral investigative agency, it is working like a political wing of BJP," AAP said in a statement. Atishi, a minister in the Delhi government, said the union government was following a ‘backup plan’ to arrest Kejriwal anyhow. "Nobody knows what this Delhi Jal Board (DJB) case is about. This seems to be a backup plan to arrest Kejriwal anyhow and stop him from campaigning in the Lok Sabha polls," said Delhi minister Atishi at a press conference on Sunday (Mar 17). This comes as Kejriwal faces ED summons and court cases for alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy. Kejriwal has so far skipped eight ED summons in the case, which the AAP says are ‘illegal and illegitimate’. The ED has now asked Kejriwal to appear in the case on March 21. What is the DJB case? In the DJB case, the investigating agency alleges that funds acquired through corruption in a contract awarded by the Delhi government's department were channelled as election funds to the AAP. In February, the ED carried out raids at the residences of individuals, including Kejriwal's personal assistant, a Rajya Sabha MP from AAP, a former DJB member, a chartered accountant, and others, as part of this investigation. Also read: Delhi court grants bail to CM Kejriwal in Enforcement Directorate summons case The ED's case is founded on an FIR by another central agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), alleging irregularities in the contract awarded to NKG Infrastructure Ltd. for a sum of Rs 38 crore ($4.6 million), despite the company not meeting the technical eligibility criteria. The ED has arrested some individuals associated with the contract. However, the AAP has refuted the agency's claims as "false". Satyendar Jain's bail rejected Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday (Mar 18) dismissed the regular bail of Satyendar Jain, an ex-minister in the Delhi government detained in a money laundering case. Watch: Delhi: AAP kicks off election campaign in Gujarat, Delhi CM appeals for two candidates × The bench of justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal asked Jain, who is out on interim bail, to surrender forthwith. The ED had arrested the AAP leader on May 30, 2022, on the charge of laundering money through four companies allegedly linked to him. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi CM Kejriwal skips ED summons in alleged Delhi Jal Board corruption case: AAP

Aam Aadmi Party convenor and Delhi chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will embark on a Gujarat visit today to launch the Lok Sabha election campaign of his party.

Delhi: AAP kicks off election campaign in Gujarat, Delhi CM appeals for two candidates

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party has been given a deadline by the Supreme Court to vacate its headquarters which stands on the plot of land allotted to the High Court.

The apex court has directed the party to vacate the place by June 15.

Taking into consideration the upcoming general election, a bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud also allowed AAP to apply to the Land and Development Office of the Government of India for allotment of alternate land in accordance with the law in the meantime.

"In view of the impending general elections, we grant time until June 15, 2024, to vacate the premises," the court said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-kejriwal-agrees-to-cooperate-with-ed-after-skipping-eight-summons-in-a-row-696339">Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row</a>

<h2>Respect&nbsp;SC's order to vacate the Delhi office, says AAP</h2>

The party released a statement saying that it respected the court's order to vacate its offices in Delhi's Rouse Avenue further expressing hope that it would be allotted land in the same location soon.

Priyanka Kakkar, the AAP's chief national spokesperson, said, "We respect the Supreme Court. The apex court has also directed that the Centre's L&amp;DO (Land and Development Office) allot an alternative land for the AAP's office as soon as possible."&nbsp;

"We hope that the BJP will not do any regressive, discriminatory or dirty politics and, without further delay, allot land for the AAP's office premises at the same location where all the other national parties have been allotted land for office use in Delhi," Kakkar said.

At the time of the hearing in the court, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that the Aam Aadmi Party had encroached on the land since 2017.

The court also underscored that the AAP was not a lawful occupant of the land after 2017.

However, senior Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for the national capital's ruling party, submitted that the AAP was one of the six national parties and is entitled to land in the New Delhi municipal area, under its status.

"They are telling us as a national party we get nothing. I'm given (land in) Badarpur while everyone else is in better places. A particular government does not want me to be flourishing and working," Singhvi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party has been given a deadline by the Supreme Court to vacate its headquarters which stands on the plot of land allotted to the High Court.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party has been given a deadline by the Supreme Court to vacate its headquarters which stands on the plot of land allotted to the High Court. The apex court has directed the party to vacate the place by June 15. Taking into consideration the upcoming general election, a bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud also allowed AAP to apply to the Land and Development Office of the Government of India for allotment of alternate land in accordance with the law in the meantime. "In view of the impending general elections, we grant time until June 15, 2024, to vacate the premises," the court said. Also read: Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row Respect SC's order to vacate the Delhi office, says AAP The party released a statement saying that it respected the court's order to vacate its offices in Delhi's Rouse Avenue further expressing hope that it would be allotted land in the same location soon. Priyanka Kakkar, the AAP's chief national spokesperson, said, "We respect the Supreme Court. The apex court has also directed that the Centre's L&DO (Land and Development Office) allot an alternative land for the AAP's office as soon as possible." "We hope that the BJP will not do any regressive, discriminatory or dirty politics and, without further delay, allot land for the AAP's office premises at the same location where all the other national parties have been allotted land for office use in Delhi," Kakkar said. At the time of the hearing in the court, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that the Aam Aadmi Party had encroached on the land since 2017. The court also underscored that the AAP was not a lawful occupant of the land after 2017. However, senior Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for the national capital's ruling party, submitted that the AAP was one of the six national parties and is entitled to land in the New Delhi municipal area, under its status. "They are telling us as a national party we get nothing. I'm given (land in) Badarpur while everyone else is in better places. A particular government does not want me to be flourishing and working," Singhvi said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Supreme Court orders Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party to vacate headquarters

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Punjab Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Bhagwant Mann on Monday (March 4) launched an impassioned verbal offensive against its Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance&nbsp;(I.N.D.I.A.) partner Congress party to slam the country's oldest political party's purported lack of leadership.

The sharp optics from the Punjab Legislative Assembly are set to raise Mann's profile in Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party as he continues to lead a bigger and much more electorally important state under the banner of AAP.

Congress and Aam Aadmi Party have allied for Delhi's 7, Haryana's 10, Goa's 2, and Gujarat's 26 Lok Sabha constituencies respectively. Even for the Chandigarh Lok Sabha constituency, the AAP and Congress will contest in alliance.

Also watch |&nbsp;Khalistan terrorist Pannun issues death threats to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann

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But in Punjab, the AAP will contest all 13 Lok Sabha constituencies by itself and its candidates will consequently clash with Congress party candidates during General Elections later this summer.

<h2>Bhagwant Mann's 'lock and key' politics</h2>

Right before the discussion on Punjab's state budget during a session of the legislative assembly in Chandigarh, CM Mann handed over an envelope with a lock and key to the Governor and consequently asked him to lock the opposition inside the assembly, so that they could not "run away" from the discussions.

This triggered a heated exchange of words and a sharp show of optics between CM Mann and the Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa.&nbsp;

The Congress is the principal opposition party in Punjab where Aam Aadmi Party is in power.&nbsp;

<h2>Bhagwant Mann's dare to Congress</h2>

An agitated CM Bhagwant Mann dared Punjab Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa to tell the Congress party's central leadership not to leave the constituencies for AAP in Haryana's Kurukshetra, as well as in Delhi and Gujarat.

"Who does Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi sit with? With me?" Mann asked while pointing to Bajwa.&nbsp;

"Have you ever sat with them?" Mann asked in a sharp attack against the Congress party's central leadership.

"On the one hand, you are making agreements (on seat sharing) with us. Go and tell them (Sonia and Rahul Gandhi) not to give Kurukshetra, Delhi and Gujarat (Lok Sabha) seats to us," Mann said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/khalistan-terrorist-pannun-threatens-to-kill-punjab-cm-bhagwant-mann-authorities-tighten-security-680612">Khalistan terrorist Pannun threatens to kill Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, authorities tighten security</a>

Punjab's Leader of Opposition&nbsp;Partap Singh Bajwa, while speaking to the reporters, said, "The Chief Minister said that the Congress does not know how to listen hence the doors of the Assembly should be locked from inside... Are we labourers? We have not seen such a weak Speaker... The CM used inappropriate words for everyone."

"When the heated argument was going on, the Chief Minister asked me if I would contest against him in the elections. I told him that from wherever he will contest from Punjab, I will stand against him. I have accepted his challenge openly," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Punjab Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Bhagwant Mann on Monday (March 4) launched an impassioned verbal offensive against its Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (I.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Punjab Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Bhagwant Mann on Monday (March 4) launched an impassioned verbal offensive against its Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.) partner Congress party to slam the country's oldest political party's purported lack of leadership. The sharp optics from the Punjab Legislative Assembly are set to raise Mann's profile in Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party as he continues to lead a bigger and much more electorally important state under the banner of AAP. Congress and Aam Aadmi Party have allied for Delhi's 7, Haryana's 10, Goa's 2, and Gujarat's 26 Lok Sabha constituencies respectively. Even for the Chandigarh Lok Sabha constituency, the AAP and Congress will contest in alliance. Also watch | Khalistan terrorist Pannun issues death threats to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann × But in Punjab, the AAP will contest all 13 Lok Sabha constituencies by itself and its candidates will consequently clash with Congress party candidates during General Elections later this summer. Bhagwant Mann's 'lock and key' politics Right before the discussion on Punjab's state budget during a session of the legislative assembly in Chandigarh, CM Mann handed over an envelope with a lock and key to the Governor and consequently asked him to lock the opposition inside the assembly, so that they could not "run away" from the discussions. This triggered a heated exchange of words and a sharp show of optics between CM Mann and the Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa. The Congress is the principal opposition party in Punjab where Aam Aadmi Party is in power. Bhagwant Mann's dare to Congress An agitated CM Bhagwant Mann dared Punjab Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa to tell the Congress party's central leadership not to leave the constituencies for AAP in Haryana's Kurukshetra, as well as in Delhi and Gujarat. "Who does Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi sit with? With me?" Mann asked while pointing to Bajwa. "Have you ever sat with them?" Mann asked in a sharp attack against the Congress party's central leadership. "On the one hand, you are making agreements (on seat sharing) with us. Go and tell them (Sonia and Rahul Gandhi) not to give Kurukshetra, Delhi and Gujarat (Lok Sabha) seats to us," Mann said. Also read | Khalistan terrorist Pannun threatens to kill Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, authorities tighten security Punjab's Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, while speaking to the reporters, said, "The Chief Minister said that the Congress does not know how to listen hence the doors of the Assembly should be locked from inside... Are we labourers? We have not seen such a weak Speaker... The CM used inappropriate words for everyone." "When the heated argument was going on, the Chief Minister asked me if I would contest against him in the elections. I told him that from wherever he will contest from Punjab, I will stand against him. I have accepted his challenge openly," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann dares Congress leader to break alliance with AAP

Delhi Finance Minister Atishi presented the union territory’s budget Monday (Mar 4) with a total outlay of INR 76,000 crore ($9.6 billion). The government said it put special emphasis on the education and health sector, with the former being allocated INR 16,000 crore ($1.93 billion) and the latter over INR 8,500 crore ($1 billion).

Atishi also unveiled the ‘Mukyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana’ in her maiden budget speech, under which a monthly honorarium of INR 1,000 ($12) will be given to all women of the state above the age of 18. While presenting the “Ram Rajya” budget, Atishi said a sum of INR 2,000 crore was set aside for the scheme.

The move, which comes ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, is seen as an attempt to woo women voters, who make up almost 50 per cent of the state’s 1.47 crore voters (14.7 million).

Watch:&nbsp;Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal excise policy scam investigation

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Atishi also highlighted Delhi’s 'Farishtey Dilli Ke' scheme, under which it bears the full expenses of accident victims. The minister claimed the scheme has so far saved over 22,000 lives.

Delhi will also invest big time in electric buses, as Atishi promised to add another 8,000 to the current fleet by 2025. Additionally, 2,000 regular buses will also be introduced.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiBqa-ZmdqEAxXSxzgGHZ6yBhgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-kejriwal-agrees-to-cooperate-with-ed-after-skipping-eight-summons-in-a-row-696339" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-kejriwal-agrees-to-cooperate-with-ed-after-skipping-eight-summons-in-a-row-696339&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBqa-ZmdqEAxXSxzgGHZ6yBhgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row</a>

"Arvind Kejriwal has emerged as a ray of hope for the people of Delhi. People of Delhi have trusted him because of his honesty and have made him the CM with a thumping majority. All the legislators who are present here are inspired by Lord Ram, and that's why we have taken a 'sanklap' to fulfill the dream of 'Ram Rajya' in Delhi," the finance minister said.

The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which sits in the opposition in Delhi, accused Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of ‘duplication.’

BJP leader Bansuri Swaraj said, "It shows the duplicity of the (Delhi) government, which is deeply indulged in corruption, talking about 'Ram Rajya'. It doesn’t even suit them. There's nothing new in today’s (Delhi) budget."

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Finance Minister Atishi presented the union territory’s budget Monday (Mar 4) with a total outlay of INR 76,000 crore ($9.6 billion). The government said it put special emphasis on the education and health sector, with the former being allocated INR 16,000 crore ($1.

Delhi Finance Minister Atishi presented the union territory’s budget Monday (Mar 4) with a total outlay of INR 76,000 crore ($9.6 billion). The government said it put special emphasis on the education and health sector, with the former being allocated INR 16,000 crore ($1.93 billion) and the latter over INR 8,500 crore ($1 billion). Atishi also unveiled the ‘Mukyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana’ in her maiden budget speech, under which a monthly honorarium of INR 1,000 ($12) will be given to all women of the state above the age of 18. While presenting the “Ram Rajya” budget, Atishi said a sum of INR 2,000 crore was set aside for the scheme. The move, which comes ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, is seen as an attempt to woo women voters, who make up almost 50 per cent of the state’s 1.47 crore voters (14.7 million). Watch: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal excise policy scam investigation × Atishi also highlighted Delhi’s 'Farishtey Dilli Ke' scheme, under which it bears the full expenses of accident victims. The minister claimed the scheme has so far saved over 22,000 lives. Delhi will also invest big time in electric buses, as Atishi promised to add another 8,000 to the current fleet by 2025. Additionally, 2,000 regular buses will also be introduced. Also read: Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row "Arvind Kejriwal has emerged as a ray of hope for the people of Delhi. People of Delhi have trusted him because of his honesty and have made him the CM with a thumping majority. All the legislators who are present here are inspired by Lord Ram, and that's why we have taken a 'sanklap' to fulfill the dream of 'Ram Rajya' in Delhi," the finance minister said. The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), which sits in the opposition in Delhi, accused Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of ‘duplication.’ BJP leader Bansuri Swaraj said, "It shows the duplicity of the (Delhi) government, which is deeply indulged in corruption, talking about 'Ram Rajya'. It doesn’t even suit them. There's nothing new in today’s (Delhi) budget." (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi’s AAP govt announces monthly assistance of $12 to women in ‘Ram Rajya’ budget

The Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal is in a big tussle with India's anti-money laundering agency- the enforcement directorate. The ED is asking Kejriwal to appear before the agency for a probe linked to an alleged scam. But Kejriwal has skipped 7 ED summons so far, and an eighth summon has been issued by the ED.

India: ED issues 8th summmon to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in Liquor Scam

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday (Feb 27) announced the names of candidates for Delhi and Haryana for the upcoming General Election&nbsp;in India as the party&nbsp;named four sitting Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). This&nbsp;comes just a few days after&nbsp;AAP agreed to a&nbsp;seat-sharing with the Indian National Congress (INC) in Delhi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

AAP's Political Affairs Committee (PAC) meeting took place at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence on Tuesday, and the names were announced after that.&nbsp;

While announcing the names, AAP leader and Delhi Minister Gopal Rai said that MLA Somnath Bharti will contest from New Delhi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-jaishankar-nirmala-sitharaman-may-contest-election-from-karnataka-says-minister-694368">S Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman may contest Lok Saba election from Karnataka, says minister</a>&nbsp;

Rai said that the party made a "big decision" of fielding a reserved category candidate from a general seat, with the party's decision that Kuldeep Kumar will&nbsp;contest from East Delhi.&nbsp;

Rai said Sahi Ram Pehelwan to contest from South Delhi and Mahabal Mishra to contest from West Delhi seat.&nbsp;

In the Lok Sabha polls, Delhi elects seven members, who are elected directly by the electorates of Delhi and the members are chosen for a period of five years.

He further said that Sushil Gupta will contest from Kurukshetra in the North Indian state of Haryana.&nbsp;

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AAP leader and Delhi Minister Gopal Rai announces the names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. 
 
In Delhi - Kuldeep Kumar to contest from East Delhi, Somnath Bharti to contest from New Delhi, Sahi Ram Pehelwan to contest from South Delhi and Mahabal Mishra to… <a href="https://t.co/gPxMZUvn87">pic.twitter.com/gPxMZUvn87</a>
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Rai told India-based news agency ANI: "The biggest criteria in making the decision about candidates is that it is clear that the BJP MPs are neither seen among the public nor do any work."&nbsp;

"So, the party decided to field leaders who are connected to the ground, are among the people round the clock and work for them," he added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | After announcing Lok Sabha candidates for Delhi and Haryana, Delhi Minister and AAP leader Gopal Rai says, "The biggest criteria in making the decision about candidates is that it is clear that the BJP MPs are neither seen among the public nor do any work. So, the party… <a href="https://t.co/qXDg3KFWrY">pic.twitter.com/qXDg3KFWrY</a>
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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday (Feb 27) announced the names of candidates for Delhi and Haryana for the upcoming General Election in India as the party named four sitting Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday (Feb 27) announced the names of candidates for Delhi and Haryana for the upcoming General Election in India as the party named four sitting Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). This comes just a few days after AAP agreed to a seat-sharing with the Indian National Congress (INC) in Delhi. AAP's Political Affairs Committee (PAC) meeting took place at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence on Tuesday, and the names were announced after that. While announcing the names, AAP leader and Delhi Minister Gopal Rai said that MLA Somnath Bharti will contest from New Delhi. Also read: S Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman may contest Lok Saba election from Karnataka, says minister Rai said that the party made a "big decision" of fielding a reserved category candidate from a general seat, with the party's decision that Kuldeep Kumar will contest from East Delhi. Rai said Sahi Ram Pehelwan to contest from South Delhi and Mahabal Mishra to contest from West Delhi seat. In the Lok Sabha polls, Delhi elects seven members, who are elected directly by the electorates of Delhi and the members are chosen for a period of five years. He further said that Sushil Gupta will contest from Kurukshetra in the North Indian state of Haryana. AAP leader and Delhi Minister Gopal Rai announces the names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. In Delhi - Kuldeep Kumar to contest from East Delhi, Somnath Bharti to contest from New Delhi, Sahi Ram Pehelwan to contest from South Delhi and Mahabal Mishra to… pic.twitter.com/gPxMZUvn87 — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2024 × Rai told India-based news agency ANI: "The biggest criteria in making the decision about candidates is that it is clear that the BJP MPs are neither seen among the public nor do any work." "So, the party decided to field leaders who are connected to the ground, are among the people round the clock and work for them," he added. #WATCH | After announcing Lok Sabha candidates for Delhi and Haryana, Delhi Minister and AAP leader Gopal Rai says, "The biggest criteria in making the decision about candidates is that it is clear that the BJP MPs are neither seen among the public nor do any work. So, the party… pic.twitter.com/qXDg3KFWrY — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

AAP announces names of 5 candidates from Delhi, Haryana for upcoming Indian General Election

Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal will not appear before India's Enforcement Directorate on Monday (Feb 26) after the agency issued the seventh summons to the Delhi chief minister, news agency ANI reported citing sources.

"The matter is in the court and the next hearing is on March 16. Instead of sending summons daily, the ED should wait for the court's decision. We will not leave the INDIA alliance. Modi government should not create pressure like this," a party source said.

"They want us to break the alliance (INDIA). When ED itself has approached the court, then why can't they wait for the court's decision? The matter is in court and they sending summons repeatedly. Informally, we have got messages to break the alliance. We will not leave the INDIA alliance," Kejriwal said.

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&nbsp;

The probe agency issued the seventh summons to Kejriwal on Feb 22 in the case related to his government's excise policy.

He was asked to appear before the agency on Feb 26 for questioning related to the money laundering probe in connection with the alleged irregularities in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22.

The agency had earlier issued a sixth summons to Kejriwal on Feb 14, asking him to join the probe on Feb 19, which he skipped, as he did on the previous occasions.

In a statement, the AAP reiterated that the summonses sent to Kejriwal were "illegal" and said the issue was "now in court".

"The Enforcement Directorate itself approached the court. Instead of sending summons again and again, the ED should wait for the court's decision," the party said.

"Whatever law is relevant, we are responding. Now, a case has been filed in the (ED) court. The Enforcement Directorate should wait for the result before issuing any fresh summons," Kejriwal told reporters outside the Delhi assembly.

The previous five summons were issued on February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-summoned-by-ed-for-7th-time-in-excise-policy-case-692648">Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal summoned by ED for 7th time in excise policy case</a>

<h2>Summons are 'illegal and invalid', says Kejriwal&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier, while skipping the fifth summons issued by the ED, Kejriwal had called it "illegal", claiming that the agency's intention was only to arrest him and stop him from campaigning for the elections.

"All five notices sent to me (by the ED) are illegal and invalid in the eyes of the law. Whenever such general, non-specific notices were sent by the ED in the past, they were quashed and declared invalid by courts. These notices are being sent as part of a political conspiracy," Kejriwal said after skipping the fifth notice.

ED had approached Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Kejriwal on Feb 3 for non-compliance after he skipped the fifth summons.

The Directorate of Enforcement wants to record the Delhi chief minister's statement in the case related to issues about the formation of policy, meetings held before it was finalised, and allegations of bribery.

The case is based on an FIR which alleges that there were multiple irregularities in the formation as well as implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22) by the Central Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

The policy was withdrawn following corruption allegations.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal will not appear before India's Enforcement Directorate on Monday (Feb 26) after the agency issued the seventh summons to the Delhi chief minister, news agency ANI reported citing sources.

Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal will not appear before India's Enforcement Directorate on Monday (Feb 26) after the agency issued the seventh summons to the Delhi chief minister, news agency ANI reported citing sources. "The matter is in the court and the next hearing is on March 16. Instead of sending summons daily, the ED should wait for the court's decision. We will not leave the INDIA alliance. Modi government should not create pressure like this," a party source said. "They want us to break the alliance (INDIA). When ED itself has approached the court, then why can't they wait for the court's decision? The matter is in court and they sending summons repeatedly. Informally, we have got messages to break the alliance. We will not leave the INDIA alliance," Kejriwal said. #WATCH | On skipping ED Summon, Delhi CM and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal says "They want us to break the alliance (INDIA). When ED itself has approached the court, then why can't they wait for the court's decision? The matter is in court and they sending summons… pic.twitter.com/FW4tJTBcpE — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2024 × The probe agency issued the seventh summons to Kejriwal on Feb 22 in the case related to his government's excise policy. He was asked to appear before the agency on Feb 26 for questioning related to the money laundering probe in connection with the alleged irregularities in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. The agency had earlier issued a sixth summons to Kejriwal on Feb 14, asking him to join the probe on Feb 19, which he skipped, as he did on the previous occasions. In a statement, the AAP reiterated that the summonses sent to Kejriwal were "illegal" and said the issue was "now in court". "The Enforcement Directorate itself approached the court. Instead of sending summons again and again, the ED should wait for the court's decision," the party said. "Whatever law is relevant, we are responding. Now, a case has been filed in the (ED) court. The Enforcement Directorate should wait for the result before issuing any fresh summons," Kejriwal told reporters outside the Delhi assembly. The previous five summons were issued on February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22. Also read: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal summoned by ED for 7th time in excise policy case Summons are 'illegal and invalid', says Kejriwal Earlier, while skipping the fifth summons issued by the ED, Kejriwal had called it "illegal", claiming that the agency's intention was only to arrest him and stop him from campaigning for the elections. "All five notices sent to me (by the ED) are illegal and invalid in the eyes of the law. Whenever such general, non-specific notices were sent by the ED in the past, they were quashed and declared invalid by courts. These notices are being sent as part of a political conspiracy," Kejriwal said after skipping the fifth notice. ED had approached Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Kejriwal on Feb 3 for non-compliance after he skipped the fifth summons. The Directorate of Enforcement wants to record the Delhi chief minister's statement in the case related to issues about the formation of policy, meetings held before it was finalised, and allegations of bribery. The case is based on an FIR which alleges that there were multiple irregularities in the formation as well as implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22) by the Central Bureau of Investigation. The policy was withdrawn following corruption allegations. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal skips 7th ED summons, AAP says will wait for court order

Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of Delhi, was ordered on Wednesday (Feb 7) to appear before it on February 17. This comes after a complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo for missing five consecutive summons in a case linked to a now-scrapped liquor excise policy case.

The central probe agency filed a second charge against Kejriwal on February 3 for failing to comply with its summons. It maintained that the Delhi CM is a public servant who cannot disobey government directions.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-pray-that-you-keep-40-seats-with-you-pm-modis-jibe-at-congress-687851">I pray that you keep 40 seats with you: PM Modi’s jibe at Congress</a>&nbsp;

On the same day, Kejriwal had snubbed ED's fifth call, and before that, he had not responded to notices issued on January 31, January 19, December 21, and November 2.&nbsp;

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra said, "Cognisance of the complaint has been taken, and a summons is being issued to him to appear on February 17."&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;

According to the investigating agencies, the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cong-orchestrating-north-south-divide-gave-our-land-to-enemies-pm-modi-in-rajya-sabha-687805">Cong orchestrating north-south divide, gave our land to enemies: PM Modi in Rajya Sabha</a>&nbsp;

The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits.&nbsp;

However, the Delhi government has&nbsp;denied any wrongdoing and said the new policy would have led to an increase in Delhi's revenue share.&nbsp;

AAP has often slammed the ongoing probe, claiming that ED's actions are "politically motivated".The party has also complained that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "sole aim... is to arrest Arvind Kejriwal and topple the Delhi government".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of Delhi, was ordered on Wednesday (Feb 7) to appear before it on February 17. This comes after a complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo for missing five consecutive summons in a case linked to a now-scrapped liquor excise policy case.

Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of Delhi, was ordered on Wednesday (Feb 7) to appear before it on February 17. This comes after a complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo for missing five consecutive summons in a case linked to a now-scrapped liquor excise policy case. The central probe agency filed a second charge against Kejriwal on February 3 for failing to comply with its summons. It maintained that the Delhi CM is a public servant who cannot disobey government directions. Also read: I pray that you keep 40 seats with you: PM Modi’s jibe at Congress On the same day, Kejriwal had snubbed ED's fifth call, and before that, he had not responded to notices issued on January 31, January 19, December 21, and November 2. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra said, "Cognisance of the complaint has been taken, and a summons is being issued to him to appear on February 17." 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. According to the investigating agencies, the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policy. Also read: Cong orchestrating north-south divide, gave our land to enemies: PM Modi in Rajya Sabha The agencies have alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits. However, the Delhi government has denied any wrongdoing and said the new policy would have led to an increase in Delhi's revenue share. AAP has often slammed the ongoing probe, claiming that ED's actions are "politically motivated".The party has also complained that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "sole aim... is to arrest Arvind Kejriwal and topple the Delhi government". (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi Court summons CM Arvind Kejriwal after central probe agency ED's complaint

INDIA, the alliance of opposition parties trying to cobble together a united alliance against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) received two major shocks on Wednesday as Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared that his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won't ally with Indian National Congress in the state. The announcement came mere hours after West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress Party (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee announced similar position in her state.

Both political parties are part of the INDIA alliance which comprises 28 opposition parties, including the Congress and the CPI(M)-led Left Front.

Watch | TMC, AAP leaders rule out seat-sharing in Punjab, West bengal

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Punjab chief minister's statement has come at a time AAP and the Congress are discussing seat sharing in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Goa and Gujarat for general elections in the country due in a few months.

While he was replying to a question about AAP's alliance with Congress, Mann said, “Punjab will become a hero in the country and the AAP will win 13-0 in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.”

When he was prodded further about whether it was the final decision he said, “We are not going with them (Congress).”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-cm-himanta-sarma-warns-he-will-arrest-congress-leader-rahul-gandhi-683266">Assam CM Himanta Sarma warns he will arrest Congress leader Rahul Gandhi</a>

Mann added further that discussions were already underway for AAP's probable candidates for 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab and 40 probable names had come up.

“There are three to four probable candidates per Lok Sabha constituency. Surveys will be conducted and we have kept winnabilty as the criterion (for fielding a candidate),” he said.

The Punjab CM said that several state leaders from the party were against alliance with Congress in Punjab.

<h2>Situation in West Bengal</h2>

Earlier in the day, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unequivocally said that the Trinamool Congress will contest on all 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state on its own and there will be no alliance with Congress.

"I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I gave them (the Congress) many proposals... but they rejected them. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP," said Banerjee. She expressed her unhappiness that though former Congress president Rahul Gandhi was coming to West Bengal with his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay' march, she was not informed of it.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-tmcs-solo-act-in-bengal-shake-india-alliance-mamata-says-will-fight-on-all-42-seats-alone-683142">Can TMC's solo act in Bengal shake INDIA alliance? Mamata says will fight on all 42 seats 'alone'</a>

Congress has struck conciliatory tone after Banerjee's statements.

"TMC is a pillar of the INDIA alliance. We cannot imagine the INDIA alliance without Mamata ji. Tomorrow our Yatra is entering West Bengal. Discussions regarding seat sharing are being done and a result will come soon that will keep everyone satisfied...," said Congress general secretary in-charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh.

(With inputs from agencies)

INDIA, the alliance of opposition parties trying to cobble together a united alliance against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) received two major shocks on Wednesday as Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared that his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won't ally with Indian National Congress in the state.

INDIA, the alliance of opposition parties trying to cobble together a united alliance against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) received two major shocks on Wednesday as Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared that his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won't ally with Indian National Congress in the state. The announcement came mere hours after West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress Party (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee announced similar position in her state. Both political parties are part of the INDIA alliance which comprises 28 opposition parties, including the Congress and the CPI(M)-led Left Front. Watch | TMC, AAP leaders rule out seat-sharing in Punjab, West bengal × Punjab chief minister's statement has come at a time AAP and the Congress are discussing seat sharing in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Goa and Gujarat for general elections in the country due in a few months. While he was replying to a question about AAP's alliance with Congress, Mann said, “Punjab will become a hero in the country and the AAP will win 13-0 in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.” When he was prodded further about whether it was the final decision he said, “We are not going with them (Congress).” Also Read | Assam CM Himanta Sarma warns he will arrest Congress leader Rahul Gandhi Mann added further that discussions were already underway for AAP's probable candidates for 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab and 40 probable names had come up. “There are three to four probable candidates per Lok Sabha constituency. Surveys will be conducted and we have kept winnabilty as the criterion (for fielding a candidate),” he said. The Punjab CM said that several state leaders from the party were against alliance with Congress in Punjab. Situation in West Bengal Earlier in the day, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unequivocally said that the Trinamool Congress will contest on all 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state on its own and there will be no alliance with Congress. "I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I gave them (the Congress) many proposals... but they rejected them. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP," said Banerjee. She expressed her unhappiness that though former Congress president Rahul Gandhi was coming to West Bengal with his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay' march, she was not informed of it. Also Read | Can TMC's solo act in Bengal shake INDIA alliance? Mamata says will fight on all 42 seats 'alone' Congress has struck conciliatory tone after Banerjee's statements. "TMC is a pillar of the INDIA alliance. We cannot imagine the INDIA alliance without Mamata ji. Tomorrow our Yatra is entering West Bengal. Discussions regarding seat sharing are being done and a result will come soon that will keep everyone satisfied...," said Congress general secretary in-charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh. (With inputs from agencies)

Another shock to INDIA alliance: Punjab CM says AAP to contest all seats in state

India's anti-money laundering agency, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), has refuted the claims by leaders of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party in New Delhi that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is likely to be arrested today. The agency says it is likely to issue a fourth summon to the Delhi CM in the liquor scam case.

Probe agency ED refutes AAP leaders' claim of Kejriwal's likely arrest

AAP leaders claim party Chief Arvind Kejriwal could be arrested today, ED refutes claim | WION

ED says Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal may get fourth summon, won't be arrested today

The Aam Aadmi Party has appointed its MP Raghav Chadha as the leader of the party in Rajya Sabha in place of Sanjay Singh, sources said.

In a letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the AAP party leadership has said that in the absence of Sanjay Singh, who has "health issues", Raghav Chadha will henceforth be the party's leader in the upper house.

AAP MP Sanjay Singh is currently behind bars in the Delhi liquor policy case.

Sources in the Rajya Sabha secretariat confirmed that a letter has been received from AAP regarding appointing Chadha as its floor leader.

The letter is with the RS Secretary General for implementation.

Chadha is one of the youngest members of Rajya Sabha. The AAP has a total of 10 MPs in the Upper House currently.

AAP has the fourth largest strength in Rajya Sabha after the BJP, the Congress and the TMC.

The Aam Aadmi Party has appointed its MP Raghav Chadha as the leader of the party in Rajya Sabha in place of Sanjay Singh, sources said. In a letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the AAP party leadership has said that in the absence of Sanjay Singh, who has "health issues", Raghav Chadha will henceforth be the party's leader in the upper house.

The Aam Aadmi Party has appointed its MP Raghav Chadha as the leader of the party in Rajya Sabha in place of Sanjay Singh, sources said. In a letter to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the AAP party leadership has said that in the absence of Sanjay Singh, who has "health issues", Raghav Chadha will henceforth be the party's leader in the upper house. AAP MP Sanjay Singh is currently behind bars in the Delhi liquor policy case. Sources in the Rajya Sabha secretariat confirmed that a letter has been received from AAP regarding appointing Chadha as its floor leader. The letter is with the RS Secretary General for implementation. Chadha is one of the youngest members of Rajya Sabha. The AAP has a total of 10 MPs in the Upper House currently. AAP has the fourth largest strength in Rajya Sabha after the BJP, the Congress and the TMC.

Raghav Chadha appointed AAP leader in Rajya Sabha

The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, on Thursday (Oct 5), flocked to Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and held a prayer meeting for the "liberation" of people from the "corrupt" AAP government in the city.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated that their party's struggle to liberate people from the clutches of the "corrupt" AAP government headed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will continue.

He claimed that Kejriwal was the "kingpin" of the alleged liquor scam in Delhi further reiterating Mahatma Gandhi's teachings who said alcohol destroys both the body and the soul.

"Kejriwal has not only destroyed the soul but also the entire Aam Aadmi Party," Sachdeva said, launching an attack on the AAP National Convener and the Delhi Chief Minister.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has been hitting out at the Kejriwal government since Wednesday (Oct 4), after AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a Delhi excise policy-related case.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhis-aap-stages-protests-across-nation-against-arrest-of-its-mp-sanjay-singh-642822"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhis-aap-stages-protests-across-nation-against-arrest-of-its-mp-sanjay-singh-642822">India: Delhi’s AAP stages protests across nation against arrest of its MP Sanjay Singh</a>

<h2>ED arrests Sanjay Singh</h2>

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh was arrested on Wednesday (Oct 4) by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the central agency searched his residence in India's capital in connection with its money laundering investigation into the alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy 2021-22.&nbsp;

According to the officials, the premises of others linked to the case were also covered during the search operation. The ED said that they earlier questioned the members of staff and those linked to the 51-year-old Rajya Sabha MP. &nbsp;

ED claimed that the AAP leader helped formulate and implement the excise policy which benefited certain liquor manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers.&nbsp;

Authorities alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured specific dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge strongly refuted by the AAP.&nbsp;

On the arrest of Singh, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said, "Today, one thing is clear that the truth cannot be hidden...After Sanjay Singh, it's Arvind Kejriwal."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, on Thursday (Oct 5), flocked to Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and held a prayer meeting for the "liberation" of people from the "corrupt" AAP government in the city.

The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, on Thursday (Oct 5), flocked to Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and held a prayer meeting for the "liberation" of people from the "corrupt" AAP government in the city. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated that their party's struggle to liberate people from the clutches of the "corrupt" AAP government headed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will continue. He claimed that Kejriwal was the "kingpin" of the alleged liquor scam in Delhi further reiterating Mahatma Gandhi's teachings who said alcohol destroys both the body and the soul. "Kejriwal has not only destroyed the soul but also the entire Aam Aadmi Party," Sachdeva said, launching an attack on the AAP National Convener and the Delhi Chief Minister. The Bharatiya Janata Party has been hitting out at the Kejriwal government since Wednesday (Oct 4), after AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a Delhi excise policy-related case. Also read: India: Delhi’s AAP stages protests across nation against arrest of its MP Sanjay Singh ED arrests Sanjay Singh Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh was arrested on Wednesday (Oct 4) by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. Earlier in the day, the central agency searched his residence in India's capital in connection with its money laundering investigation into the alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy 2021-22. According to the officials, the premises of others linked to the case were also covered during the search operation. The ED said that they earlier questioned the members of staff and those linked to the 51-year-old Rajya Sabha MP. ED claimed that the AAP leader helped formulate and implement the excise policy which benefited certain liquor manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers. Authorities alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured specific dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge strongly refuted by the AAP. On the arrest of Singh, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said, "Today, one thing is clear that the truth cannot be hidden...After Sanjay Singh, it's Arvind Kejriwal." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Delhi BJP leaders hold prayer meeting at Rajghat to 'liberate' people from clutches of 'corrupt' AAP govt

Delhi’s ruling party and a member of the opposition ‘INDIA’ bloc, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is protesting across the country against the detention of one of its top leaders in a corruption case.&nbsp;

A Member of Parliament (MP) from the upper house (Rajya Sabha) of the Indian Parliament, Sanjay Singh was arrested by financial watchdog Enforcement Directorate (ED) for his alleged involvement in the liquor policy scam.

Earlier on Wednesday (Oct 4), his residence in Delhi was raided by the ED.

The raids against Singh took place after he was named by businessman Dinesh Arora, an accused in the case, who later turned 'approver'.

<h2>AAP to stage protests nationwide</h2>

AAP on Thursday (Oct 5) was staging protests outside the headquarters of the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi. Similar protests are also being held opposite the ED office in Mumbai.

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VIDEO | AAP workers protest outside BJP headquarters in Delhi against the ED arrest of party MP Sanjay Singh. <a href="https://t.co/TxBgXLoboI">pic.twitter.com/TxBgXLoboI</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1709824726330204361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Barely 100 metres from the ED office, the policemen stopped AAP workers, infuriating them and leading to a clash. Many leaders were soon detained.

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Mumbai: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAP</a> workers held protest outside <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ED?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ED</a> office against arrest of AAP MP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanjaySingh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanjaySingh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanjaySinghArrested?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanjaySinghArrested</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnforcementDirectorate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnforcementDirectorate</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanjaySinghAAP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanjaySinghAAP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cliQIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cliQIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/QSfQTFvGQY">pic.twitter.com/QSfQTFvGQY</a>
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Protests were also held at Sanjay Singh’s residence in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Singh’s arrest has already sparked a political controversy, with AAP’s top leader and Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal stating that the move showed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s anxiety.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Earthquake measuring 6.2 reported in Nepal; Tremors felt in parts of northern Delhi

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“They have arrested Sanjay Singh, a powerful advocate against Modi ji’s corruption. He is completely steeped in corruption from top to bottom. I believe he is the most corrupt prime minister in the history of independent India,” Kejriwal said.

<h2>Third high-profile arrest</h2>

This marks the third significant arrest involving the AAP. In May of the previous year, Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain was apprehended on charges of money laundering, which allegedly involved four companies associated with him.

However, the most substantial blow to the party came in February of this year when the then Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and close associate of Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, was arrested by the CBI in connection with the alleged liquor policy scam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhi-ncr-remains-top-in-worst-pollution-rankings-mizoram-has-cleanest-air-642548">Also read:&nbsp;India: Delhi-NCR remains top in worst polluted city rankings, Mizoram has cleanest air</a>

The liquor policy case is currently under investigation by both the CBI and the ED. This policy, introduced in November 2021, entailed the government's withdrawal from the retail sale of liquor, allowing private licensees to operate stores.&nbsp;

In July 2022, Delhi Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar raised concerns about significant violations in the policy and alleged that liquor license holders had received "undue benefits."

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Delhi’s ruling party and a member of the opposition ‘INDIA’ bloc, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is protesting across the country against the detention of one of its top leaders in a corruption case.

Delhi’s ruling party and a member of the opposition ‘INDIA’ bloc, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is protesting across the country against the detention of one of its top leaders in a corruption case. A Member of Parliament (MP) from the upper house (Rajya Sabha) of the Indian Parliament, Sanjay Singh was arrested by financial watchdog Enforcement Directorate (ED) for his alleged involvement in the liquor policy scam. Earlier on Wednesday (Oct 4), his residence in Delhi was raided by the ED. The raids against Singh took place after he was named by businessman Dinesh Arora, an accused in the case, who later turned 'approver'. AAP to stage protests nationwide AAP on Thursday (Oct 5) was staging protests outside the headquarters of the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi. Similar protests are also being held opposite the ED office in Mumbai. VIDEO | AAP workers protest outside BJP headquarters in Delhi against the ED arrest of party MP Sanjay Singh. pic.twitter.com/TxBgXLoboI — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 5, 2023 × Barely 100 metres from the ED office, the policemen stopped AAP workers, infuriating them and leading to a clash. Many leaders were soon detained. Mumbai: #AAP workers held protest outside #ED office against arrest of AAP MP #SanjaySingh#SanjaySinghArrested #EnforcementDirectorate #SanjaySinghAAP #cliQIndia pic.twitter.com/QSfQTFvGQY — cliQ India (@cliQIndiaMedia) October 5, 2023 × Protests were also held at Sanjay Singh’s residence in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Singh’s arrest has already sparked a political controversy, with AAP’s top leader and Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal stating that the move showed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s anxiety. Watch: Earthquake measuring 6.2 reported in Nepal; Tremors felt in parts of northern Delhi × “They have arrested Sanjay Singh, a powerful advocate against Modi ji’s corruption. He is completely steeped in corruption from top to bottom. I believe he is the most corrupt prime minister in the history of independent India,” Kejriwal said. Third high-profile arrest This marks the third significant arrest involving the AAP. In May of the previous year, Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain was apprehended on charges of money laundering, which allegedly involved four companies associated with him. However, the most substantial blow to the party came in February of this year when the then Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and close associate of Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, was arrested by the CBI in connection with the alleged liquor policy scam. Also read: India: Delhi-NCR remains top in worst polluted city rankings, Mizoram has cleanest air The liquor policy case is currently under investigation by both the CBI and the ED. This policy, introduced in November 2021, entailed the government's withdrawal from the retail sale of liquor, allowing private licensees to operate stores. In July 2022, Delhi Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar raised concerns about significant violations in the policy and alleged that liquor license holders had received "undue benefits." WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Delhi’s AAP stages protests across nation against arrest of its MP Sanjay Singh

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh was arrested on Wednesday (Oct 4) by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. Earlier in the day, the central agency searched his residence in India's capital in connection with its money laundering investigation into the alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy 2021-22.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh was arrested on Wednesday (Oct 4) by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. Earlier in the day, the central agency searched his residence in India's capital in connection with its money laundering investigation into the alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy 2021-22. According to the officials, the premises of some others who are linked to the case were also covered during the search operation. The ED said that they earlier questioned the members of staff and those linked to the 51-year-old Rajya Sabha MP. Also read: Delhi-NCR remains top in worst polluted city rankings, Mizoram has cleanest air ED claimed that the AAP leader helped in the formulation and implementation of the excise policy which benefited certain liquor manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers. Authorities alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge strongly refuted by the AAP. The policy was subsequently scrapped and the Delhi lieutenant governor recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the PMLA. On the arrest of Singh, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said, "Today, one thing is clear that the truth cannot be hidden...After Sanjay Singh, it's Arvind Kejriwal." #WATCH | On the arrest of AAP leader Sanjay Singh in Delhi liquor policy case, Delhi BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva says, "Today, one thing is clear that the truth cannot be hidden...After Sanjay Singh, it's Arvind Kejriwal. pic.twitter.com/A9jFJ1dtt3 — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2023 × Also read: India-Canada row: Are you applying for Canada visa? Diplomat withdrawal can lead to delays Meanwhile, Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury targeted the central government and said: "This is today's formula. As soon as elections come, ED goes behind the opposition leader. This is the identity of the Modi government. Many people who were investigated by the ED have gone to the BJP." Another Congress leader Meem Afzal said, "This is in accordance with the tendency of this government. Those who speak up and question will go behind bars...I don't find Sanjay Singh's arrest surprising. The way he speaks inside and outside the Parliament gives interviews and openly challenges the PM and other leaders - it was certain that he had to go to jail. BJP is following this ritual these days." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ED arrests AAP leader Sanjay Singh in Delhi govt's alleged excise policy corruption case

Two Aam Aadmi Party leaders created a major political stir on Wednesday. They pitched party leader Arvind Kejriwal's name for the PM face from the opposition’s INDIA bloc. Even though it was their personal opinion, a political stir was already erupted.

Will Arvind Kejriwal be the face of 'INDIA' bloc?

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha on Friday (August 11) was suspended from Rajya Sabha for "gross violation of rule, misconduct, defiant attitude and contemptuous conduct". A report by the privileges committee is pending.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced, "I suspend Raghav Chadha from the service of the Council till the Council has the benefit of the report by the Committee of Privileges."&nbsp;

His suspension followed a motion moved by House Leader Piyush Goyal seeking action against the AAP leader for including the names of some Upper House members without their consent in a proposed select committee for the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sonia-gandhi-to-hold-meeting-with-congress-mps-over-suspension-of-adhir-ranjan-from-lok-sabha-624433">Sonia Gandhi to hold meeting with Congress MPs over suspension of Adhir Ranjan from Lok Sabha</a>&nbsp;

On Thursday, Chadha slammed the BJP for accusing him of forging the signatures of five MPs in a motion related to the Delhi services bill. He said that the party was trying to "suppress" his voice as he had "exposed" its "double standards".&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha chairman on Wednesday referred complaints of four MPs, who accused Chadha of proposing their name for the constitution of a Select Committee without their consent in violation of rules. The rules state that neither a member's consent nor signature is required to propose his or her name for a Select Committee.&nbsp;

In a press conference, the AAP leader said that the allegations against him were "baseless" and said an MP can propose the name of any other member without their written consent or signature for a Select Committee.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-body-of-teenager-found-inside-well-in-rajasthan-locals-allege-rape-murder-by-teacher-probe-on-624509">Body of teenager found inside well in Rajasthan, locals allege rape, murder by teacher; probe on</a>&nbsp;

"I will approach the Committee of Privileges and court of law against the BJP Lok Sabha members who levelled the false allegations of forgery against me," Chadha said.&nbsp;

"Any member can propose the name of any other member without the written consent of the member or signature," the AAP MP said. He also claimed that a "rumour" is being spread about him doing forgery.&nbsp;

He asked how the question of forgery arise when nobody's signature was taken and submitted. "A rumour which is being spread about forged signatures is absolutely wrong and baseless," Chadha said.&nbsp;

"I challenge the BJP to show the papers that have the forged signatures as alleged by them. The Parliamentary Bulletin on complaints against me has no mention of forgery, fake signatures," Chadha said and added that the BJP was "trying to suppress his voice".&nbsp;

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<h2>Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die&nbsp;</h2>

On Friday, Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die. The day also wrapped the Monsoon session, whihc was marred by disruptions over the Manipur violence issue.&nbsp;

The Upper House was adjourned twice in the pre-lunch session due to an outcry from opposition members who sought a discussion and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response on the situation in Manipur in the House.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha on Friday (August 11) was suspended from Rajya Sabha for "gross violation of rule, misconduct, defiant attitude and contemptuous conduct".

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha on Friday (August 11) was suspended from Rajya Sabha for "gross violation of rule, misconduct, defiant attitude and contemptuous conduct". A report by the privileges committee is pending. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced, "I suspend Raghav Chadha from the service of the Council till the Council has the benefit of the report by the Committee of Privileges." His suspension followed a motion moved by House Leader Piyush Goyal seeking action against the AAP leader for including the names of some Upper House members without their consent in a proposed select committee for the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023. Also read: Sonia Gandhi to hold meeting with Congress MPs over suspension of Adhir Ranjan from Lok Sabha On Thursday, Chadha slammed the BJP for accusing him of forging the signatures of five MPs in a motion related to the Delhi services bill. He said that the party was trying to "suppress" his voice as he had "exposed" its "double standards". Rajya Sabha chairman on Wednesday referred complaints of four MPs, who accused Chadha of proposing their name for the constitution of a Select Committee without their consent in violation of rules. The rules state that neither a member's consent nor signature is required to propose his or her name for a Select Committee. In a press conference, the AAP leader said that the allegations against him were "baseless" and said an MP can propose the name of any other member without their written consent or signature for a Select Committee. Also read: Body of teenager found inside well in Rajasthan, locals allege rape, murder by teacher; probe on "I will approach the Committee of Privileges and court of law against the BJP Lok Sabha members who levelled the false allegations of forgery against me," Chadha said. "Any member can propose the name of any other member without the written consent of the member or signature," the AAP MP said. He also claimed that a "rumour" is being spread about him doing forgery. He asked how the question of forgery arise when nobody's signature was taken and submitted. "A rumour which is being spread about forged signatures is absolutely wrong and baseless," Chadha said. "I challenge the BJP to show the papers that have the forged signatures as alleged by them. The Parliamentary Bulletin on complaints against me has no mention of forgery, fake signatures," Chadha said and added that the BJP was "trying to suppress his voice". #WATCH | Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announces, "...I suspend Raghav Chadha from the service of the Council till the Council has the benefit of the report by the Committee of Privileges." pic.twitter.com/OXMGitpdMQ — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2023 × Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die On Friday, Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die. The day also wrapped the Monsoon session, whihc was marred by disruptions over the Manipur violence issue. The Upper House was adjourned twice in the pre-lunch session due to an outcry from opposition members who sought a discussion and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response on the situation in Manipur in the House. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha suspended from Rajya Sabha on signature forgery allegations

Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case. Kejriwal is expected to appear as a witness in the case in which former deputy CM Manish Sisodia has already been jailed. With a faction of the party fearing that Kejriwal may also be jailed, some Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders met Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for an emergency meeting.&nbsp;

According to multiple reports seniors leaders such as Gopal Rai, Pankaj Gupta and other congregated at Mann's Kaurthala House in New Delhi to chart a future course of action.

The meeting was necessitated after party leaders including&nbsp;Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Atishi, Kailash Gahlot and Saurabh Bharadwaj were rounded up for protesting in front of the CBI office and detained to Najafgarh police station.&nbsp;

"More than 1500 people protesting in support of Arvind Kejriwal have been arrested by the police. Out of which 1379 people have been kept in different police stations and others are being rotated in buses," said AAP's Gopal Rai.&nbsp;

Kejriwal released a video message, prior to heading to the CBI office where he insinuated that CBI officers might dispatch him to jail.&nbsp;

“They (CBI) have called me today and I will definitely go. They are very powerful, they can send anyone to jail," said Kejriwal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-deputy-chief-minister-manish-sisodia-arrested-after-8-hour-grilling-566157">WATCH |&nbsp;Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia arrested after 8-hour grilling</a>

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Meanwhile, senior AAP leader Atishi said the entire country was standing with Kejriwal as CBI continued to hound&nbsp;him.&nbsp;

"Arvind Kejriwal has been called for questioning by CBI. They say that it is a scam of thousands of crores but till now they have not been able to prove that even a single rupee was embezzled. The entire country is with Arvind Kejriwal," she said.&nbsp;

What is the excise policy scam?

The AAP government brought in the excise policy to revolutionise the sale of liquor in Delhi by bringing in more private players. The rationale given was that the new policy will help generate optimum revenue while eradicating bootlegging and sale of spurious liquor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-politician-manish-sisodia-arrested-by-indias-top-investigation-body-in-liquor-policy-row-566115" target="_blank">Read more: India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case</a>

However, corruption in the distribution of permits, bribery and fraud in the funneling of tender amounts meant that the initiative collapsed within a year.&nbsp;

It has been alleged that AAP leaders formulated the policy at the peak of pandemic to create illegal channels of funding.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case.

Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case. Kejriwal is expected to appear as a witness in the case in which former deputy CM Manish Sisodia has already been jailed. With a faction of the party fearing that Kejriwal may also be jailed, some Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders met Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for an emergency meeting. According to multiple reports seniors leaders such as Gopal Rai, Pankaj Gupta and other congregated at Mann's Kaurthala House in New Delhi to chart a future course of action. The meeting was necessitated after party leaders including Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Atishi, Kailash Gahlot and Saurabh Bharadwaj were rounded up for protesting in front of the CBI office and detained to Najafgarh police station. "More than 1500 people protesting in support of Arvind Kejriwal have been arrested by the police. Out of which 1379 people have been kept in different police stations and others are being rotated in buses," said AAP's Gopal Rai. Kejriwal released a video message, prior to heading to the CBI office where he insinuated that CBI officers might dispatch him to jail. “They (CBI) have called me today and I will definitely go. They are very powerful, they can send anyone to jail," said Kejriwal. WATCH | Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia arrested after 8-hour grilling × Meanwhile, senior AAP leader Atishi said the entire country was standing with Kejriwal as CBI continued to hound him. "Arvind Kejriwal has been called for questioning by CBI. They say that it is a scam of thousands of crores but till now they have not been able to prove that even a single rupee was embezzled. The entire country is with Arvind Kejriwal," she said. What is the excise policy scam? The AAP government brought in the excise policy to revolutionise the sale of liquor in Delhi by bringing in more private players. The rationale given was that the new policy will help generate optimum revenue while eradicating bootlegging and sale of spurious liquor. Read more: India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case However, corruption in the distribution of permits, bribery and fraud in the funneling of tender amounts meant that the initiative collapsed within a year. It has been alleged that AAP leaders formulated the policy at the peak of pandemic to create illegal channels of funding. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: AAP leaders conduct emergency meeting as CBI grills Kejriwal in excise scam

For assembly elections in India’s western state of Gujarat and northern state of Himachal Pradesh, the numbers are in and the verdict will be out on December 8. Prior to that, the informed guesswork on who will claim the power in these states concluded on the evening of December 5 in the form of Exit Polls.

While the most Exit Polls concluded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party will retain the power in both the states, they also asserted that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will gain significant vote share translating into enough number of seats required to claim the status of a national party.

ALSO READ -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-elections-2022-as-servant-of-people-modi-seeks-another-bjp-term-536849">Gujarat Elections 2022: As 'servant of people', Modi seeks another BJP term</a>

The projections vary to as many as 21 seats and as few as 1 seat of 182 assembly seats in Gujarat, the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

AAP may become national party on Dec 8

Aam Aadmi Party requires just two seats to claim the National Party status in India and the Exit Poll projections make it imminent.&nbsp;

According to the Election Commission (EC), political parties are listed as “national party”, “state party” or “registered (unrecognised) party”. The conditions for being listed as a national or a state party are specified under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.

To be a national party, according to India’s Election Commission’s rules,a party has to fulfil any of the three following conditions: they should win two per cent of seats in the Lok Sabha from at least three different states or it should poll six per cent of the total votes in an Assembly election. In addition, they must have four Lok Sabha seats and it should be recognised as a state party in at least four states.

What does being a National Party mean in India?

Once recognised as a national party, it is entitled to a reserved symbol for its candidates from across the country.

Besides, candidates are entitled to get dedicated broadcast slots on public broadcasters Doordarshan and All India Radio during the general elections.

A ‘national party’ also gets the benefit of having a maximum of 40 ‘star campaigners’ during a general election. The ‘national party’ status also means a government bungalow in New Delhi for its national president and office space at a subsidised rate in the national capital.

At present, India’s Election Commission recognises eight outfits as national parties — the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress, the Communist Party of India (CPI), the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the National People’s Party (NPP).

For assembly elections in India’s western state of Gujarat and northern state of Himachal Pradesh, the numbers are in and the verdict will be out on December 8. Prior to that, the informed guesswork on who will claim the power in these states concluded on the evening of December 5 in the form of Exit Polls.

For assembly elections in India’s western state of Gujarat and northern state of Himachal Pradesh, the numbers are in and the verdict will be out on December 8. Prior to that, the informed guesswork on who will claim the power in these states concluded on the evening of December 5 in the form of Exit Polls. While the most Exit Polls concluded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party will retain the power in both the states, they also asserted that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will gain significant vote share translating into enough number of seats required to claim the status of a national party. ALSO READ - Gujarat Elections 2022: As 'servant of people', Modi seeks another BJP term The projections vary to as many as 21 seats and as few as 1 seat of 182 assembly seats in Gujarat, the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. AAP may become national party on Dec 8 Aam Aadmi Party requires just two seats to claim the National Party status in India and the Exit Poll projections make it imminent. According to the Election Commission (EC), political parties are listed as “national party”, “state party” or “registered (unrecognised) party”. The conditions for being listed as a national or a state party are specified under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968. To be a national party, according to India’s Election Commission’s rules,a party has to fulfil any of the three following conditions: they should win two per cent of seats in the Lok Sabha from at least three different states or it should poll six per cent of the total votes in an Assembly election. In addition, they must have four Lok Sabha seats and it should be recognised as a state party in at least four states. What does being a National Party mean in India? Once recognised as a national party, it is entitled to a reserved symbol for its candidates from across the country. Besides, candidates are entitled to get dedicated broadcast slots on public broadcasters Doordarshan and All India Radio during the general elections. A ‘national party’ also gets the benefit of having a maximum of 40 ‘star campaigners’ during a general election. The ‘national party’ status also means a government bungalow in New Delhi for its national president and office space at a subsidised rate in the national capital. At present, India’s Election Commission recognises eight outfits as national parties — the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress, the Communist Party of India (CPI), the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the National People’s Party (NPP).

On Dec 8, India may get its ninth national party

Amit Palekar, a lawyer-turned-politician, has been named as the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) chief ministerial candidate for the Goa Assembly Elections 2022.

Palekar joined the AAP in October of last year, after the party made its debut in Goa during the 2017 elections.

Many were surprised by Palekar's selection by the AAP over party leaders who have been connected with it since 2017.

Palekar is running for the AAP in the St. Cruz Assembly constituency, which is currently held by the ruling BJP.

AAP chairman and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, who announced his candidacy for Chief Minister, said that Goa demands change, which is why the party has offered tickets to new faces across the state.&nbsp;

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I'm guaranteeing you a corruption-free Goa. We will get back Goa's lost glory, a Goa everyone dreamt of. I will keep every word that I have said and that is my guarantee: Amit Palekar, AAP CM candidate for Goa Assembly election, 2022 <a href="https://t.co/jZsC6FvBjH">pic.twitter.com/jZsC6FvBjH</a>
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The AAP had earlier announced that its CM pick would be a face from the Bhandari community. Palekar, 46, belongs to the Bhandari community.

Goa's Bhandari community has 35% of the population.

According to reports, his mother was a Sarpanch for ten years.

Palekar made headlines recently when he went on an indefinite hunger strike to protest the illegal construction of a building within the Old Goa Heritage grounds.

Later, the BJP administration was forced to intervene in the disputed structure.

The AAP has declared that it will run for all 40 seats in the Goa legislature on its own.

The assembly elections in Goa will be held on February 17 and the results will be announced on March 10.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amit Palekar, a lawyer-turned-politician, has been named as the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) chief ministerial candidate for the Goa Assembly Elections 2022. Palekar joined the AAP in October of last year, after the party made its debut in Goa during the 2017 elections.

Amit Palekar, a lawyer-turned-politician, has been named as the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) chief ministerial candidate for the Goa Assembly Elections 2022. Palekar joined the AAP in October of last year, after the party made its debut in Goa during the 2017 elections. Many were surprised by Palekar's selection by the AAP over party leaders who have been connected with it since 2017. Palekar is running for the AAP in the St. Cruz Assembly constituency, which is currently held by the ruling BJP. AAP chairman and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, who announced his candidacy for Chief Minister, said that Goa demands change, which is why the party has offered tickets to new faces across the state. I'm guaranteeing you a corruption-free Goa. We will get back Goa's lost glory, a Goa everyone dreamt of. I will keep every word that I have said and that is my guarantee: Amit Palekar, AAP CM candidate for Goa Assembly election, 2022 pic.twitter.com/jZsC6FvBjH — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2022 × The AAP had earlier announced that its CM pick would be a face from the Bhandari community. Palekar, 46, belongs to the Bhandari community. Goa's Bhandari community has 35% of the population. According to reports, his mother was a Sarpanch for ten years. Palekar made headlines recently when he went on an indefinite hunger strike to protest the illegal construction of a building within the Old Goa Heritage grounds. Later, the BJP administration was forced to intervene in the disputed structure. The AAP has declared that it will run for all 40 seats in the Goa legislature on its own. The assembly elections in Goa will be held on February 17 and the results will be announced on March 10. (With inputs from agencies)

India state elections 2022: Who is Amit Palekar, Aam Aadmi Party's CM candidate for Goa?

Delhi MLA and member of the Political Affairs Committee of Aam Aadmi Party Atishi Marlena has tested positive for coronavirus and has been quarantined at her house.

The 39-year-old national spokesperson of AAP is the MLA from Kalkaji Assembly segment in south Delhi.

"Atishi ji has played an important role in the fight against corona. I hope that she will get healthy soon and again get involved in serving the people," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi.

"Get well soon Atishi, recover soon from Corona," AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi MLA and member of the Political Affairs Committee of Aam Aadmi Party Atishi Marlena has tested positive for coronavirus and has been quarantined at her house.

Delhi MLA and member of the Political Affairs Committee of Aam Aadmi Party Atishi Marlena has tested positive for coronavirus and has been quarantined at her house. The 39-year-old national spokesperson of AAP is the MLA from Kalkaji Assembly segment in south Delhi. "Atishi ji has played an important role in the fight against corona. I hope that she will get healthy soon and again get involved in serving the people," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi. "Get well soon Atishi, recover soon from Corona," AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Aam Aadmi Party MLA Atishi Marlena tests positive for COVID-19

The Delhi Fire Service and South Delhi Municipal Corporation on Tuesday conducted sanitisation drive outside Markaz in Nizamuddin area of the national capital.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-india-to-supply-hydroxychloroquine-paracetamol-to-other-badly-affected-nations-291076" hreflang="en">India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to badly-affected nations</a>

The area had witnessed a meeting of the Tablighi Jamaat. The event has emerged as a hotspot for COVID-19 after several positive cases from across India were linked to the gathering including deaths in Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-disinfection-gateway-to-the-rescue-keralas-portable-booth-can-combat-covid-19-291081" hreflang="en">Disinfection gateway to the rescue? Kerala's portable booth can fight COVID-19</a>

Out of 525 total COVID-19 cases, 329 people from Tablighi Jamaat have tested positive for coronavirus, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

The total number of coronavirus cases in the country reached 4,281 after the biggest single-day jump of 704 on Monday.

According to the latest update of the Health Ministry, there are 4,281 cases in the country including 3,851 active cases and 318 cured or discharged and 111 deaths.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Delhi Fire Service and South Delhi Municipal Corporation on Tuesday conducted sanitisation drive outside Markaz in Nizamuddin area of the national capital. Also read: India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to badly-affected nations The area had witnessed a meeting of the Tablighi Jamaat.

The Delhi Fire Service and South Delhi Municipal Corporation on Tuesday conducted sanitisation drive outside Markaz in Nizamuddin area of the national capital. Also read: India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to badly-affected nations The area had witnessed a meeting of the Tablighi Jamaat. The event has emerged as a hotspot for COVID-19 after several positive cases from across India were linked to the gathering including deaths in Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana. Also read: Disinfection gateway to the rescue? Kerala's portable booth can fight COVID-19 Out of 525 total COVID-19 cases, 329 people from Tablighi Jamaat have tested positive for coronavirus, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The total number of coronavirus cases in the country reached 4,281 after the biggest single-day jump of 704 on Monday. According to the latest update of the Health Ministry, there are 4,281 cases in the country including 3,851 active cases and 318 cured or discharged and 111 deaths.

Delhi: Sanitisation drive conducted outside Markaz in Nizamuddin

Delhi government will provide a financial assistance of Rs 5,000 to each of the drivers of public transport vehicles including autos, taxis and e-rickshaws in the city rendered idle due to lockdown, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/108-infected-with-coronavirus-in-delhi-linked-to-nizamuddin-event-cm-arvind-kejriwal-290178">108 infected with coronavirus in Delhi linked to Nizamuddin event: CM Arvind Kejriwal</a>

He said the government is planning how to do this since bank account numbers of drivers of public service vehicles like autos, taxis, e rickshaws, Gramin Sewa, RTVs and other such vehicles were unavailable.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/85-year-old-dies-of-coronavirus-in-alwar-32-test-positive-in-delhi-290043">85-year-old dies of coronavirus in Alwar; 32 test positive in Delhi</a>

Kejriwal said he will ensure that no one in the city face starvation and the financial assistance will be provided to public service drivers in next 7-10 days.

Delhi government has already provided the assistance of Rs 5,000 each to over 35,000 construction workers in the city.

The whole world and the country is affected by the coronavirus pandemic and the poor have been hit hardest because of it, he said.&nbsp;

Delhi government will provide a financial assistance of Rs 5,000 to each of the drivers of public transport vehicles including autos, taxis and e-rickshaws in the city rendered idle due to lockdown, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday.

Delhi government will provide a financial assistance of Rs 5,000 to each of the drivers of public transport vehicles including autos, taxis and e-rickshaws in the city rendered idle due to lockdown, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday. Also read: 108 infected with coronavirus in Delhi linked to Nizamuddin event: CM Arvind Kejriwal He said the government is planning how to do this since bank account numbers of drivers of public service vehicles like autos, taxis, e rickshaws, Gramin Sewa, RTVs and other such vehicles were unavailable. Also read: 85-year-old dies of coronavirus in Alwar; 32 test positive in Delhi Kejriwal said he will ensure that no one in the city face starvation and the financial assistance will be provided to public service drivers in next 7-10 days. Delhi government has already provided the assistance of Rs 5,000 each to over 35,000 construction workers in the city. The whole world and the country is affected by the coronavirus pandemic and the poor have been hit hardest because of it, he said.

Delhi government to give Rs 5,000 to each of auto, taxi and e-rickshaw drivers: Kejriwal

Even as India-made Covishield is not on European Medicine Agency's (EMA) list that is used for EU green pass, it has become the collateral damage in the inter-EU tussle in the bloc, over the bid to allow Chinese and Russian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a> for travellers.

The EU member countries were divided over allowing the Chinese&nbsp;vaccines, Sinopharm and Sino vac, and Russian vaccine&nbsp;Sputnik V as the bloc opens up for travel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/delhi-new-virus-cytomegalovirus-found-in-covid-patients-394725" hreflang="en">Delhi: New virus, Cytomegalovirus, found in Covid patients</a>

Member countries came up with a compromise formula, under which EMA's vaccines list was agreed to be used for the green pass that comes into effect from July 01. EMA has listed four vaccines, which are Comirnaty (Pfizer), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> vaccine Janssen, Spikevax (previously COVID-19 vaccine Moderna), and AstraZeneca's Vaxzevria.

EMA gives out a commercial list and the body is in charge of the scientific evaluation of medicines/vaccines in view of their marketing authorisation in the EU. The AstraZeneca vaccine produced by Serum Institute of India (Covishield) got a license for commercial use in South Asia, Africa, but not in Europe, due to which SII never even applied for the list.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cipla-gets-dcgi-nod-to-import-modernas-covid-vaccine-for-restricted-emergency-use-in-india-sources-394590" hreflang="en">Cipla gets DCGI nod to import Moderna's Covid vaccine for restricted emergency use in India: Sources</a>

The EU green pass or the Digital Covid&nbsp;Certificate is meant to facilitate safe and free movement during the Covid pandemic within the EU. The certificate serves as proof that a person has been vaccinated against coronavirus, received a negative test result, or recovered from the deadly virus. However, it is not a pre-condition to travel.

EU officials have pointed out, "For the purpose of the Digital COVID Certificate, individual Member States will have the option to accept also vaccinations that have been authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO), such as Covishield."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-up-covishields-absence-from-the-european-unions-green-pass-list-394418" hreflang="en">India takes up Covishield's absence from the European Union's 'Green Pass' list</a>

Each member country is also allowed to use any vaccine that it is okay with. Switzerland has made it clear that anyone&nbsp;who has been vaccinated or who have recovered do not have to produce a negative test even when travelling from countries where the Delta variant is widespread such as India or the United Kingdom. Ireland has listed Covishield&nbsp;as one of the vaccines for travellers coming to the country. Meanwhile, France is "actively working" on allowing Covishield after India raised the matter.

Interestingly, the EU could have used WHO's list of approved vaccines, which included Covishield but it would have implied giving a green light to both Chinese vaccines which the EU is divided on. Covishield, Sinovac, Sinopharm are among the eight vaccines that have been given approval by the&nbsp;WHO.

In a statement to WION, on Monday, European Medicines Agency said Covishield does not currently have a marketing authorisation in the bloc, pointing out that "should we receive a marketing authorization application for Covishield ...we would communicate about it."

Even as India-made Covishield is not on European Medicine Agency's (EMA) list that is used for EU green pass, it has become the collateral damage in the inter-EU tussle in the bloc, over the bid to allow Chinese and Russian vaccines for travellers.

Even as India-made Covishield is not on European Medicine Agency's (EMA) list that is used for EU green pass, it has become the collateral damage in the inter-EU tussle in the bloc, over the bid to allow Chinese and Russian vaccines for travellers. The EU member countries were divided over allowing the Chinese vaccines, Sinopharm and Sino vac, and Russian vaccine Sputnik V as the bloc opens up for travel. Also read | Delhi: New virus, Cytomegalovirus, found in Covid patients Member countries came up with a compromise formula, under which EMA's vaccines list was agreed to be used for the green pass that comes into effect from July 01. EMA has listed four vaccines, which are Comirnaty (Pfizer), COVID-19 vaccine Janssen, Spikevax (previously COVID-19 vaccine Moderna), and AstraZeneca's Vaxzevria. EMA gives out a commercial list and the body is in charge of the scientific evaluation of medicines/vaccines in view of their marketing authorisation in the EU. The AstraZeneca vaccine produced by Serum Institute of India (Covishield) got a license for commercial use in South Asia, Africa, but not in Europe, due to which SII never even applied for the list. Also read | Cipla gets DCGI nod to import Moderna's Covid vaccine for restricted emergency use in India: Sources The EU green pass or the Digital Covid Certificate is meant to facilitate safe and free movement during the Covid pandemic within the EU. The certificate serves as proof that a person has been vaccinated against coronavirus, received a negative test result, or recovered from the deadly virus. However, it is not a pre-condition to travel. EU officials have pointed out, "For the purpose of the Digital COVID Certificate, individual Member States will have the option to accept also vaccinations that have been authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO), such as Covishield." Also read | India takes up Covishield's absence from the European Union's 'Green Pass' list Each member country is also allowed to use any vaccine that it is okay with. Switzerland has made it clear that anyone who has been vaccinated or who have recovered do not have to produce a negative test even when travelling from countries where the Delta variant is widespread such as India or the United Kingdom. Ireland has listed Covishield as one of the vaccines for travellers coming to the country. Meanwhile, France is "actively working" on allowing Covishield after India raised the matter. Interestingly, the EU could have used WHO's list of approved vaccines, which included Covishield but it would have implied giving a green light to both Chinese vaccines which the EU is divided on. Covishield, Sinovac, Sinopharm are among the eight vaccines that have been given approval by the WHO. In a statement to WION, on Monday, European Medicines Agency said Covishield does not currently have a marketing authorisation in the bloc, pointing out that "should we receive a marketing authorization application for Covishield ...we would communicate about it."

Delhi riots: Suspended AAP councillor Tahir Hussain arrested in IB officer murder case

Riots in Delhi mark an abject failure of political leadership cutting across party lines, to bring people together. There was a point in time in Indian politics when politicians or people in public service had the capacity to control, and even, influence events which turned violent.&nbsp;

What we have today are political minions. It is expected of political leaders to come out and reason with the crowd, but instead of working on the ground, the matter in Delhi was left to the police as a law and order issue. Everyone knew that violence was a result of communal politics, still&nbsp;all party leaders maintained a safe distance.&nbsp;

The violence has two main dimensions. First, Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, failed to demonstrate moral courage and instead of mobilising his supporters to heal the fissure, he only issued statements. It is a reflection of how shallow connect politicians enjoy with the civil society.

This is unlike the previous generation wherein it was expected of people in public service to go out and calm the crowd. Arvind Kejriwal who was elected as the chief minister of Delhi with great fanfare, failed to intercede in the issue. His supporters argue that he does not have police under his control, so he cannot be blamed for law and order issue. Fact is that since last year, Kejriwal has created a distance between the minorities and himself so that BJP does not pin him down as a person who pampers minority. But by not being active during the crisis, Kejriwal, in the process, has come across as insincere politician who succumbed to competitive Hindutva.&nbsp;

After partition, Mahatma Gandhi had nothing under his control, but he used his moral authority to bring peace in riot-affected areas. This could have been done in Delhi too.

Another aspect of the riot was that politicians from BJP spoke blatantly in Hindu-Muslim binary. Senior leaders did not discourage junior leaders from using inflammatory language. Senior BJP leadership's appeal for calm came across as unconvincing.&nbsp;

Politicians from the ruling dispensation not only made hate speeches but also went unpunished, emboldening the unruly element to take the law into their own hands.

The police, on the other hand, failed to counter the unruly elements in the riot-affected area. The police in Delhi reports to the Ministry of Home Affairs. Despite all the technology at its disposal, it failed to locate the centre of violence in the city. Delhi riots cannot be compared with the 1984 violence when the state became completely complicit in the violence. In Delhi, the state allowed the violence to come to life. Delhi Police failed to arrest culprits in time.

Whatever the reason be, pro-CAA protests or anti-CAA protests, Delhi police failed at its job. NSA Ajit Doval’s presence in the area after 72 hours of violence sealed the case. It is not the job of the NSA to move around in a riot-hit area like a DCP or IG. NSA chased by TV cameras looked more like a PR job.&nbsp;

The religious radicals from both sides were allowed to have a free run. Lastly, many in the ruling dispensation must be happy to have found another issue for polarisation but they should remember that in Hindu literature only Goddess rides a tiger. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Riots in Delhi mark an abject failure of political leadership cutting across party lines, to bring people together. There was a point in time in Indian politics when politicians or people in public service had the capacity to control, and even, influence events which turned violent.

Riots in Delhi mark an abject failure of political leadership cutting across party lines, to bring people together. There was a point in time in Indian politics when politicians or people in public service had the capacity to control, and even, influence events which turned violent. What we have today are political minions. It is expected of political leaders to come out and reason with the crowd, but instead of working on the ground, the matter in Delhi was left to the police as a law and order issue. Everyone knew that violence was a result of communal politics, still all party leaders maintained a safe distance. The violence has two main dimensions. First, Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, failed to demonstrate moral courage and instead of mobilising his supporters to heal the fissure, he only issued statements. It is a reflection of how shallow connect politicians enjoy with the civil society. This is unlike the previous generation wherein it was expected of people in public service to go out and calm the crowd. Arvind Kejriwal who was elected as the chief minister of Delhi with great fanfare, failed to intercede in the issue. His supporters argue that he does not have police under his control, so he cannot be blamed for law and order issue. Fact is that since last year, Kejriwal has created a distance between the minorities and himself so that BJP does not pin him down as a person who pampers minority. But by not being active during the crisis, Kejriwal, in the process, has come across as insincere politician who succumbed to competitive Hindutva. After partition, Mahatma Gandhi had nothing under his control, but he used his moral authority to bring peace in riot-affected areas. This could have been done in Delhi too. Another aspect of the riot was that politicians from BJP spoke blatantly in Hindu-Muslim binary. Senior leaders did not discourage junior leaders from using inflammatory language. Senior BJP leadership's appeal for calm came across as unconvincing. Politicians from the ruling dispensation not only made hate speeches but also went unpunished, emboldening the unruly element to take the law into their own hands. The police, on the other hand, failed to counter the unruly elements in the riot-affected area. The police in Delhi reports to the Ministry of Home Affairs. Despite all the technology at its disposal, it failed to locate the centre of violence in the city. Delhi riots cannot be compared with the 1984 violence when the state became completely complicit in the violence. In Delhi, the state allowed the violence to come to life. Delhi Police failed to arrest culprits in time. Whatever the reason be, pro-CAA protests or anti-CAA protests, Delhi police failed at its job. NSA Ajit Doval’s presence in the area after 72 hours of violence sealed the case. It is not the job of the NSA to move around in a riot-hit area like a DCP or IG. NSA chased by TV cameras looked more like a PR job. The religious radicals from both sides were allowed to have a free run. Lastly, many in the ruling dispensation must be happy to have found another issue for polarisation but they should remember that in Hindu literature only Goddess rides a tiger. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why Delhi burnt under Centre's watch?

Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday held a high-level meeting over the violence in the national capital, wherein a decision was taken to provide relief material to the victims of the mayhem.

Deputy Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-government-under-fire-from-opposition-high-court-raps-police-and-cm-demands-army-deployment-283036">Manish Sisodia</a>, Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-government-under-fire-from-opposition-high-court-raps-police-and-cm-demands-army-deployment-283036">Kailash Gahlot</a> and senior officials attended the meeting.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-government-under-fire-from-opposition-high-court-raps-police-and-cm-demands-army-deployment-283036">Delhi riots: Government under fire from Opposition, high court raps police and CM demands Army deployment</a>

Earlier, the Chief Minister had announced the compensation of Rupees 1 crore and a job to a family member of Police Head Constable Rattan Lal, who had lost his life during the violence in North-East Delhi.

On Wednesday, the Chief Minister and his deputy had visited the violence-affected areas in the North-East district of the national capital.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-death-toll-reaches-32-whatsapp-groups-under-scanner-283021">Delhi riots: Death toll reaches 32; WhatsApp groups under scanner</a>

The two leaders interacted with locals at Johripur following a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-government-under-fire-from-opposition-high-court-raps-police-and-cm-demands-army-deployment-283036">Delhi High Court</a> order that "the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister should also visit the affected areas for confidence-building among people."

At least 33 people, including a police head constable, have died while around 200 people have sustained serious injuries in the violence that raged for three days in the North-East Delhi.

Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday held a high-level meeting over the violence in the national capital, wherein a decision was taken to provide relief material to the victims of the mayhem.

Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday held a high-level meeting over the violence in the national capital, wherein a decision was taken to provide relief material to the victims of the mayhem. Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Minister Kailash Gahlot and senior officials attended the meeting. Also read: Delhi riots: Government under fire from Opposition, high court raps police and CM demands Army deployment Earlier, the Chief Minister had announced the compensation of Rupees 1 crore and a job to a family member of Police Head Constable Rattan Lal, who had lost his life during the violence in North-East Delhi. On Wednesday, the Chief Minister and his deputy had visited the violence-affected areas in the North-East district of the national capital. Also read: Delhi riots: Death toll reaches 32; WhatsApp groups under scanner The two leaders interacted with locals at Johripur following a Delhi High Court order that "the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister should also visit the affected areas for confidence-building among people." At least 33 people, including a police head constable, have died while around 200 people have sustained serious injuries in the violence that raged for three days in the North-East Delhi.

Delhi government decides to provide relief to victims of violence

AAP supremo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-with-centre-for-smooth-governance-says-kejriwal-at-ramlila-maidan-280982">Arvind Kejriwal</a> on Monday took charge as the chief minister of Delhi for the third time.

Members of his Cabinet <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-with-centre-for-smooth-governance-says-kejriwal-at-ramlila-maidan-280982">Manish Sisodia</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-with-centre-for-smooth-governance-says-kejriwal-at-ramlila-maidan-280982">Satyendar Jain</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-with-centre-for-smooth-governance-says-kejriwal-at-ramlila-maidan-280982">Rajendra Pal Gautam</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-with-centre-for-smooth-governance-says-kejriwal-at-ramlila-maidan-280982">Imran Hussain</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-with-centre-for-smooth-governance-says-kejriwal-at-ramlila-maidan-280982">Gopal Rai</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-with-centre-for-smooth-governance-says-kejriwal-at-ramlila-maidan-280982">Kailash Gahlot</a> also took charge as ministers at the Delhi Secretariat.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-arvind-kejriwal-to-take-oath-as-delhi-chief-minister-today-280895">Arvind Kejriwal takes oath as Delhi CM for third term</a>

The new cabinet is going to meet soon. Portfolios of the ministers are expected to be announced after the meeting.

The new ministers said the roadmap of Delhi government's future work will be the priority after portfolios are notified.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-with-centre-for-smooth-governance-says-kejriwal-at-ramlila-maidan-280982">Want to work with Centre for smooth governance, says Kejriwal at Ramlila Maidan</a>

Soon after taking charge, Gahlot said fulfilling the points mentioned in the 'guarantee card' will be the priority.

Rai also said delivering the promises mentioned in the 'guarantee card' and the election manifesto will be the new government's priority.

During the poll campaign, Kejriwal had released a 'guarantee card' that promised free bus services for students and 24 hours drinking water supply.

"Just as we worked in the last five years, we will continue to work to make Delhi a safe and beautiful city," Gahlot told reporters.

AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Monday took charge as the chief minister of Delhi for the third time. Members of his Cabinet Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain, Rajendra Pal Gautam, Imran Hussain, Gopal Rai and Kailash Gahlot also took charge as ministers at the Delhi Secretariat.

AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Monday took charge as the chief minister of Delhi for the third time. Members of his Cabinet Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain, Rajendra Pal Gautam, Imran Hussain, Gopal Rai and Kailash Gahlot also took charge as ministers at the Delhi Secretariat. Also read: Arvind Kejriwal takes oath as Delhi CM for third term The new cabinet is going to meet soon. Portfolios of the ministers are expected to be announced after the meeting. The new ministers said the roadmap of Delhi government's future work will be the priority after portfolios are notified. Also read: Want to work with Centre for smooth governance, says Kejriwal at Ramlila Maidan Soon after taking charge, Gahlot said fulfilling the points mentioned in the 'guarantee card' will be the priority. Rai also said delivering the promises mentioned in the 'guarantee card' and the election manifesto will be the new government's priority. During the poll campaign, Kejriwal had released a 'guarantee card' that promised free bus services for students and 24 hours drinking water supply. "Just as we worked in the last five years, we will continue to work to make Delhi a safe and beautiful city," Gahlot told reporters.

Arvind Kejriwal takes charge as Delhi Chief Minister

BJP national president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/bjp-president-jp-nadda-must-show-ingenuity-to-make-his-mark-276653">Jagat Prakash Nadda</a> held a meeting with the party's Delhi chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Manoj Tiwari</a> following the party's defeat in the Delhi assembly polls.

BL Santosh, who is the party's general secretary, was also present in the meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Delhi Assembly election: BJP concedes defeat; congratulates Kejriwal for victory</a>

The meeting lasted for more than two hours and was attended by most of the&nbsp;BJP&nbsp;general secretaries.

According to sources, a number of issues came up during the discussion in the meeting, where the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">BJP </a>leaders pointed out that the party's vote share had increased in the national capital and it put up a brave poll show.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/delhi-elections-arvind-kejriwal-what-other-bjp-nemeses-can-learn-from-aap-triumph-280269">What other BJP nemeses can learn from AAP’s triumph</a>

Nadda earlier also had held a meeting with party general secretaries on Wednesday to discuss the election results.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">BJP </a>had won eight out of 70 assembly seats in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/delhi-elections-arvind-kejriwal-what-other-bjp-nemeses-can-learn-from-aap-triumph-280269">Delhi</a>.

Whereas, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Aam Aadmi Party</a>, led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Arvind Kejriwal </a>had bagged the remaining 62 seats.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-bjp-concedes-defeat-congratulates-kejriwal-for-victory-280054">Arvind Kejriwal</a> will take oath for the as the Chief Minister of Delhi for the third time in a row on February 16 at Delhi's iconic Ramlila Maidan.

BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda held a meeting with the party's Delhi chief Manoj Tiwari following the party's defeat in the Delhi assembly polls. BL Santosh, who is the party's general secretary, was also present in the meeting.

BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda held a meeting with the party's Delhi chief Manoj Tiwari following the party's defeat in the Delhi assembly polls. BL Santosh, who is the party's general secretary, was also present in the meeting. Delhi Assembly election: BJP concedes defeat; congratulates Kejriwal for victory The meeting lasted for more than two hours and was attended by most of the BJP general secretaries. According to sources, a number of issues came up during the discussion in the meeting, where the BJP leaders pointed out that the party's vote share had increased in the national capital and it put up a brave poll show. Also read: What other BJP nemeses can learn from AAP’s triumph Nadda earlier also had held a meeting with party general secretaries on Wednesday to discuss the election results. BJP had won eight out of 70 assembly seats in Delhi. Whereas, Aam Aadmi Party, led by Arvind Kejriwal had bagged the remaining 62 seats. Arvind Kejriwal will take oath for the as the Chief Minister of Delhi for the third time in a row on February 16 at Delhi's iconic Ramlila Maidan.

BJP chief JP Nadda conducts meeting to assess defeat in Delhi Assembly polls

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