27 April,2024 05:35 PM IST | Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has claimed that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) acted in a "most highhanded manner" in a money-laundering investigation involving the purported excise policy fraud. In a reaction to the ED's reply affidavit filed in the Supreme Court, Kejriwal claimed that he has always cooperated with the inquiry.
Kejriwal's reaction comes after the ED said one of the reasons for his detention was his failure to appear before the investigating officer (IO) after receiving nine summons. He criticised the ED's approach, alleging a disregard for due process, reported PTI.
According to the report, the Chief Minister maintained that each summons was properly responded to, with the relevant information provided. He questioned the need for physical presence, arguing that virtual channels of communication may have been used instead.
"The aforementioned tenor, text and contents of the reply leave no manner of doubt that the ED has acted in a most highhanded manner in a gross affront to the due process of law," he said.
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"What was the requirement in not calling the petitioner (Kejriwal) either through an authorised agent or seeking information or documents from him in writing or through a virtual mode and insisting on his presence physically in person, is not forthcoming," he said.
Kejriwal denied the ED's description of him as the "kingpin and key conspirator" of the excise policy scheme, claiming that the allegations were without basis. He claimed that his arrest was unjustified and advocated for his release, the PTI report added.
However, the ED claims that Kejriwal conspired with his ministers and party members, alleging kickbacks in exchange for policy favours. It supported Kejriwal's arrest, claiming it was based on substantive evidence.
Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 after the Delhi High Court refused to protect him from coercive action by the ED. He is currently in judicial detention at the Tihar Jail. The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the ED requesting a response to Kejriwal's suit challenging his arrest.
