In response to assertions by AAP leaders that Arvind Kejriwal would continue as chief minister even if incarcerated, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena underscored that the government would not be administered from behind bars.

Kejriwal’s recent arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21, in connection with the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case, has sparked debate regarding the governance of the capital city. He stands accused of direct involvement in a conspiracy related to formulating policies favoring specific individuals.

Addressing a summit hosted by a media outlet, Saxena assured the people of Delhi that governmental affairs would not be influenced by Kejriwal’s custodial situation.

The Lieutenant Governor’s statement follows a meeting between a Delhi BJP delegation and Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, where the BJP demanded an investigation into purported “letters” sent by Kejriwal to his ministers from ED custody.

Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva asserted that the delegation sought an inquiry into the authenticity of these letters and the involvement of ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj, who claim to have received them. Sachdeva alleged that the letters were fraudulent, citing procedural irregularities.

Last week, Water Minister Atishi presented a note purportedly from Kejriwal, directing her to address water supply and sewerage issues in the city.

Despite Kejriwal’s arrest and the detention of other AAP leaders, including the entire top brass, Minister Atishi reiterated the party’s stance that Kejriwal would continue as chief minister and govern from jail.

Under the law, Kejriwal can remain chief minister until proven guilty. The Representation of the People Act, 1951, stipulates that elected representatives need not resign until convicted, though ethical concerns about continuing in office persist.

As of now, the AAP’s top strategists have not indicated any plans to appoint a replacement for Kejriwal amidst the ongoing legal proceedings.