A court decision has prolonged the custody of Indian opposition leader Arvind Kejriwal until Monday in connection with a corruption case related to a now-defunct alcohol sales policy in Delhi.
The extension comes amidst assertions from Mr. Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, that the accusations against him are part of a “political conspiracy” lacking concrete evidence. His denial of any wrongdoing contrasts with claims from the Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s financial crimes unit, suggesting evasiveness in his responses.
Mr. Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleges political vendetta by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which denies such accusations, asserting its stance against corruption.
This development follows a statement from the US State Department advocating for fair legal proceedings, prompting India to express discontent. Such international scrutiny echoes recent remarks from the German foreign ministry and raises concerns about democratic principles and the rule of law in India.
Amidst growing tensions, opposition leaders decry perceived government overreach, with instances of bank account freezes and arrests of prominent figures like Hemant Soren, all amidst preparations for general elections.
The situation underscores broader concerns raised by Amnesty International regarding the state of dissent and opposition in India, suggesting a deepening crisis in democratic norms.