"No Fundamental Right To Campaign": Probe Agency Opposes Bail For Arvind Kejriwal
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal seeks interim bail for election campaigning. Enforcement Directorate opposes, citing equality under law. Supreme Court to decide.
The Supreme Court is gearing up for a significant decision regarding Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's interim bail on Friday, which would enable him to participate in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. However, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has stepped in by filing an affidavit opposing Kejriwal's petition. The ED firmly stated that laws apply equally to everyone and emphasized that campaigning is not a fundamental, constitutional, or even legal right.
Kejriwal was arrested by the probe agency in connection with the liquor policy case on March 21. Now, the ED has raised concerns, highlighting that no political leader has ever been granted bail solely for campaigning purposes. Granting bail to Kejriwal for canvassing for his party candidates, according to the ED, would establish a troubling precedent.
During Tuesday's hearing, the Supreme Court acknowledged Kejriwal's position as the elected chief minister of Delhi and remarked that he is not a habitual offender. The bench, comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Dipankar Datta, recognized the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the elections and made a notable observation that Kejriwal is not someone with a history of repeated offences.
The legal battle surrounding Kejriwal's bail has sparked debates and discussions across various sectors. On one hand, there is a sentiment that denying him bail could hinder the democratic process, as it would prevent a prominent political figure from actively participating in elections. Conversely, granting him bail solely for campaigning purposes could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to misuse of the legal system by other political figures in the future.
The case has also raised questions about the balance between individual rights and legal responsibilities, particularly in the context of election campaigns. While campaigning is undoubtedly crucial for democratic processes, ensuring equal treatment under the law is equally important to maintain the integrity of the legal system.
Many citizens and legal experts are closely watching the developments, awaiting the Supreme Court's decision on Friday. Whatever the outcome, it is expected to have significant implications not only for Kejriwal but also for the broader political landscape and the interpretation of legal principles concerning bail and election campaigning.
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