India Calls In US Envoy Regarding State Department Comments On Kejriwal's Arrest Situation
The case against Kejriwal revolves around alleged corruption and money laundering related to Delhi's excise policy for 2021-22, which was subsequently annulled.
India summoned US Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gloria Berbena to protest the US State Department's call for a fair legal process regarding the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. This move came just four days after a similar protest was lodged with Germany.
The Ministry of External Affairs expressed strong objection to remarks made by a US State Department spokesperson regarding legal proceedings in India. Although the statement did not specifically mention the summoning of the American diplomat, sources familiar with the matter confirmed that Gloria Berbena was called in.
India strongly objects to the remarks of the US State Department Spokesperson:https://t.co/mi0Lu2XXDL pic.twitter.com/pa9WYNZQSi
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) March 27, 2024
The ministry emphasized the importance of diplomatic respect for the sovereignty and internal affairs of other nations, especially among fellow democracies, to avoid setting unhealthy precedents. India asserted that its legal processes are overseen by an independent judiciary committed to objective and timely outcomes, and casting doubt on this is unwarranted.
Earlier, the German deputy chief of mission was also summoned for expressing a similar stance on Kejriwal's arrest. India objected to what it perceived as interference in its judicial process and undermining of its judiciary's independence.
The case against Kejriwal revolves around alleged corruption and money laundering related to Delhi's excise policy for 2021-22, which was subsequently annulled. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleges that AAP leaders received kickbacks worth ₹100 crore in connection with the policy and that Kejriwal was involved in formulating it.
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Kejriwal's name has appeared in ED charge sheets multiple times, with the agency claiming that the accused were in communication with him during the formulation of the excise policy.
India's summoning of both US and German diplomats underscores its commitment to protecting its judicial sovereignty and maintaining the integrity of its legal processes. It sends a clear message against perceived external interference in domestic affairs and affirms the nation's stance on ensuring a fair and impartial legal process for all individuals, including political figures like Arvind Kejriwal.
