Arvind Kejriwal released from jail : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was released from Tihar Jail on Friday evening, after spending 50 days incarcerated on charges of corruption linked to an alleged liquor policy scam. His release follows a Supreme Court decision that granted him bail until June 1, allowing him a temporary freedom to campaign in the ongoing elections.
As he emerged from Gate No 4 of Tihar Jail, Kejriwal was greeted by jubilant crowds of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supporters waving flags and chanting slogans. The presence of high-profile supporters, including his wife Sunita Kejriwal and senior AAP leaders like Atishi and Saurabh Bhardwaj, underscored the political weight of the moment.
A “Gamechanger” for the INDIA Bloc
Saurabh Bhardwaj, speaking at the event, termed Kejriwal’s release a “gamechanger” for the AAP and the broader INDIA electoral alliance. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who was also in attendance, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the boost this could give the party in the critical Delhi elections scheduled for May 25.
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Kejriwal’s First Words Post-Release
In his first public address following his release, Kejriwal expressed his gratitude towards the Supreme Court judges, emphasizing the judiciary’s role in upholding justice. “We have to save the country from dictatorship,” Kejriwal declared, making a pointed reference to what he sees as autocratic tendencies in the current national political landscape.
Moreover, attributing his release to divine intervention, Kejriwal announced plans to visit the Hanuman temple in Connaught Place, a move symbolizing his continued spiritual and moral campaign.
Legal and Political Ramifications
The Supreme Court, in its ruling, pointed out the exceptional nature of Kejriwal’s circumstances, citing his non-habitual offender status and his position as a sitting Chief Minister. “21 days will not make any difference… for one-and-a-half years he was there… he could have been arrested before or after (the election) also,” the court observed, highlighting procedural discrepancies in the handling of his case.
Controversy Surrounding the Arrest and Bail
The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which had opposed Kejriwal’s bail, argued that no politician should have a status above ordinary citizens, emphasizing the principle of equality before law. Meanwhile, the BJP has taken a critical stance on his temporary release, labeling him a “scam mastermind” who will soon return to jail.
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Alleged Delhi Liquor Policy Scam
Central to Kejriwal’s arrest were allegations involving a scrapped liquor policy, purportedly designed to benefit certain parties through illicit kickbacks amounting to ₹100 crores. The AAP has vehemently denied these charges, accusing the BJP of manipulating legal systems to target opposition leaders ahead of elections.
Conclusion : Arvind Kejriwal released from jail
Arvind Kejriwal’s release has injected new vigor into the AAP’s campaign, setting the stage for a fiercely contested election. With his bail scheduled until June 1, the coming days are critical not only for his freedom but also for the political future of the AAP and the democratic fabric of the nation.
FAQs about Arvind Kejriwal’s Release from Jail
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- Who is Arvind Kejriwal?
- Arvind Kejriwal is the Chief Minister of Delhi and the leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
- Why was Arvind Kejriwal in jail?
- He was jailed on corruption charges related to an alleged liquor policy scam.
- How long was Arvind Kejriwal in jail?
- He was in jail for 50 days.
- What led to Arvind Kejriwal’s release from jail?
- The Supreme Court granted him bail until June 1, allowing his temporary release.
- What was Arvind Kejriwal’s reaction upon being released?
- He thanked the Supreme Court judges and emphasized the need to fight against dictatorship.
- Who welcomed Arvind Kejriwal at the jail gate?
- He was welcomed by his wife, senior AAP leaders, and a crowd of supporters.
- What did Arvind Kejriwal plan after his release?
- He planned to visit the Hanuman temple in Connaught Place the following day.
- What did the Supreme Court say about Arvind Kejriwal’s bail?
- The Court noted that given his non-habitual offender status and his role as Chief Minister, the bail was justified under the extraordinary circumstances.
- What are the legal arguments against Arvind Kejriwal’s bail?
- The Enforcement Directorate argued that no politician should be granted special status and that granting bail might set a wrong precedent.
- What is the alleged Delhi Liquor Policy Scam?
- It involves accusations that the AAP government crafted a liquor policy that facilitated kickbacks for license allotments.
- What is AAP’s stance on the corruption charges?
- The AAP and Arvind Kejriwal deny the charges, claiming they are politically motivated.
- What impact does Kejriwal’s release have on the elections?
- His release is seen as a boost for the AAP and the INDIA bloc in the ongoing elections.
- When are the next elections in Delhi?
- The elections for Delhi’s seven seats were scheduled to take place on May 25.
- What did the BJP say about Kejriwal’s release?
- The BJP criticized his release, stating that he would soon be back in jail and calling him a “scam mastermind.”
- How did AAP leaders react to Kejriwal’s release?
- AAP leaders expressed optimism, calling his release a “gamechanger” for the party.
- What was the public reaction to Kejriwal’s release?
- His supporters were jubilant, showing strong support as he exited the jail.
- Is Arvind Kejriwal allowed to participate in election campaigning?
- Yes, his bail allows him to campaign until he is required to surrender on June 2.
- What does Arvind Kejriwal’s release mean for the AAP?
- It provides a significant moral and strategic lift to the AAP’s campaign efforts.
- Who opposed Arvind Kejriwal’s bail and why?
- The Enforcement Directorate opposed it, arguing that his release could undermine legal equality and set a poor precedent.
- What will happen next in Arvind Kejriwal’s legal case?
- The court scheduled to hear further arguments for extended relief the following week.
- Who is Arvind Kejriwal?