In a significant development, the Supreme Court entertained Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged Delhi excise policy scam. The hearing, presided over by the bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta, witnessed deliberations regarding the possibility of granting interim bail to Kejriwal, especially in light of the ongoing elections.

Justice Khanna, leading the proceedings, indicated the court’s willingness to entertain the question of interim relief for Kejriwal, cautioning against premature assumptions. “Do not assume anything. Do not read anything into it,” Justice Khanna emphasized, underscoring the court’s openness to considering all aspects of the case. He further clarified, “The Court is just being open about what is in its mind. It may or may not grant interim bail, but is ready to consider the possibility.”

During the hearing, the court also raised concerns regarding Kejriwal’s continued involvement in official matters, querying whether he should be signing any files while under arrest. The proceedings were adjourned until May 7 for further deliberation.

This development follows the apex court’s previous questioning of the Enforcement Directorate regarding the timing of Kejriwal’s arrest, particularly in the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The court, emphasizing the significance of life and liberty, sought a response from the agency, underscoring the gravity of the matter.

Kejriwal, who has been in judicial custody since his arrest on March 21, faces allegations of involvement in money laundering related to the excise policy scam. The Supreme Court had earlier issued a notice to the ED on April 15, seeking its response to Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest.

The High Court had previously upheld Kejriwal’s arrest, citing his failure to comply with summonses and participate in the investigation.