Analysis
Arvind Kejriwal in the Supreme Court: A timeline
We map the sequence of events at the Supreme Court over six months which led to Kejriwal’s release in the liquor policy scam
On 13 September 2024, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal secured his fourth bail from his arrests for his alleged involvement in the Delhi Liquor Policy scam. Kejriwal has been at the centre of two major investigations: one by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged money laundering and one by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for alleged corruption. His six months in custody were marked by frequent appeals and applications before various trial courts, which extended his judicial custody. On several occasions, the Delhi High Court has dismissed his pleas for release, having found merit in the investigative agencies’ argument that Kejriwal had the potential to “derail the investigation” if released.
Before the Supreme Court, however, Kejriwal’s fortunes have fared better. The 13 September 2024 bail order marked the third instance in which the top court directed his release. Our timeline notes the key events which led to the Supreme Court releasing him after taking note of his personal liberty and long periods of custody.