SC grants bail to Arvind Kejriwal

Can’t Go to CM Office Or Sign Files

New Delhi – The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader has been granted bail on a bond of Rs 10 lakh and two sureties, paving the way for his release from custody. After nearly six months without a trial – since he already has bail in the case filed by the Enforcement Directorate. SC found his “prolonged incarceration amounts to unjust deprivation of liberty” – after his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation in June in connection with the liquor excise policy case. However, the court’s decision came with restrictions that will impact his functioning as Chief Minister.

Restrictions on Kejriwal’s bail

While Kejriwal can leave prison, his activities will be significantly curtailed. According to the Supreme Court’s directives, the following conditions must be adhered to:

Kejriwal will not be allowed to sign any official documents unless deemed essential and only with prior approval from the Lieutenant Governor.
The Chief Minister is barred from visiting his office or the Delhi Secretariat while out on bail.
Kejriwal is prohibited from making any public statements regarding the merits of the case.
He is required to attend all hearings before the trial court, unless an exemption is granted.

“We have considered personal liberty. The trial is unlikely to be completed soon. The remaining conditions will be set by the trial court. Keeping the appellant in custody on these grounds would be a mockery of justice, especially since he was granted bail under the more stringent PMLA. CBI should work towards changing its image of being a caged parrot,” the SC judge noted.