In a recent judicial decision, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea for interim bail under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) was turned down by Special Judge Kaveri Baweja of the Rouse Avenue Court. The ruling was based on the court’s observation that Kejriwal’s active involvement in extensive election campaigning during the Lok Sabha polls contradicts claims of suffering from serious or life-threatening ailments.
Judge Baweja emphasized that conditions like Diabetes, including type-2 Diabetes, do not warrant the relief sought by Kejriwal. The court noted that his rigorous campaign schedule indicates a lack of serious health concerns that would justify such an exemption.
Kejriwal’s plea centered around anticipated health issues and the need for medical tests to assess potential complications like Diabetic Ketoacidosis. However, the court maintained that these examinations could be conducted while he remains in custody.
To address the matter comprehensively, the court revived the AIIMS medical board previously established to examine Kejriwal’s health. The board has been tasked with conducting thorough medical assessments within a three-day timeframe. Following the tests, the board is authorized to prescribe any necessary treatment, which the jail authorities are mandated to provide promptly under the court’s supervision.
Legal representation for Kejriwal was provided by Senior Advocate N Hariharan and advocate Vivek Jain, while the Enforcement Directorate (ED) was represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, and Special Counsel Zoheb Hossain.
The court’s decision underscores the judicial system’s commitment to impartiality and thorough examination of legal matters, ensuring that all parties are treated fairly and in accordance with established laws and procedures.
