Delhi MLA Durgesh Pathak, a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has been granted bail alongside another person in connection with the previously withdrawn Delhi excise policy for 2021-22. While Pathak was released, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, also a co-accused, remains in judicial custody until September 25. The Central Bureau of Investigation claims that Kejriwal is the “kingpin” of the alleged scam. Following his release, Pathak accused the BJP of trying to undermine the AAP, stating there is no solid evidence against them. In a contrasting response, the BJP spokesperson noted that several AAP leaders are out on bail but warned that they would likely be convicted after the trial.
Title: Bail Granted to AAP’s Durgesh Pathak Amid Excise Policy Controversy
Two individuals, including Durgesh Pathak, a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the MLA for Rajinder Nagar, were granted bail on Wednesday in connection with the now-withdrawn Delhi excise policy for 2021-22. A court in Rouse Avenue approved Mr. Pathak’s bail while also extending the judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is also implicated in the case.
Previous to this, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had received permission to prosecute both Mr. Pathak and Mr. Kejriwal regarding allegations of an excise policy scam. The agency’s chargesheet filed in July labeled Kejriwal as the “kingpin” of the alleged misconduct.
In a related development, the Delhi High Court granted bail to Arun Ramchandra Pillai, a businessman linked to a money laundering investigation tied to the excise policy. Pillai had been arrested last year, being claimed as a close associate of Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K. Kavitha, who was also recently granted bail by the Supreme Court.
After his release, Mr. Pathak spoke with the media, alleging that the BJP is attempting to undermine the AAP, stating, “The Prime Minister wants to finish off AAP.” He insisted that investigations against AAP leaders lack substantial evidence.
In response, a spokesperson for the Delhi BJP pointed out that while Kejriwal remains incarcerated, several of his party colleagues, including Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, have been released on bail. They asserted that those accused will eventually face conviction once the trial concludes.
This ongoing saga highlights the ongoing tensions and legal battles involving the AAP, reflecting broader political struggles within the region.
Published – September 12, 2024, 12:55 am IST
Tags: AAP, Durgesh Pathak, Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Excise Policy, Bail Grant, CBI, Political News, India News
What happened with Durgesh Pathak and Arvind Kejriwal?
Durgesh Pathak got bail in a case related to excise policy, while Arvind Kejriwal’s time in judicial custody was extended.
Why did Durgesh Pathak get bail?
He was granted bail because the court found enough reasons to believe that he should be released.
What does it mean for Arvind Kejriwal that his custody is extended?
It means that he will stay in judicial custody for a longer period as the court continues to review his case.
Are there any charges against Arvind Kejriwal?
Yes, he is facing charges related to a controversial excise policy.
What might happen next in this case?
The legal proceedings will continue, and both leaders will have to attend court hearings to resolve their cases.
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