CBI Labels Arvind Kejriwal As 'Sutradhar' Behind Delhi Excise Policy Scam

On Monday, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) called Arvind Kejriwal the "sutradhaar" (facilitator) of the Delhi excise policy case.

The CBI, represented by special public prosecutor DP Singh, presented their case before the Delhi High Court, stating that the agency arrested the Delhi Chief Minister only when substantial evidence started to surface against him.

The Delhi High Court was hearing Kejriwal's plea seeking regular bail and has reserved its order.

DP Singh said that the arrest of Kejriwal was crucial for the investigation as it led to more evidence and testimonies, including from AAP workers. He added, "The agency couldn't have completed its probe without arresting the AAP chief."

The CBI claims to have evidence proving Kejriwal's direct involvement in the scam, and Singh argued that even post-charge sheet, Kejriwal could potentially influence witnesses.

On the other hand, Arvind Kejriwal's lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, contended that the agency had not interrogated the Chief Minister since his arrest except during police remand.

He argued, "The agency has no direct evidence against Kejriwal and hasn't recovered anything from his home."

Singhvi pointed out that the formulation and implementation of the excise policy were institutional decisions involving at least 50 bureaucrats, including the L-G and nine ministries, and added, "Today there is no direct evidence. No direct recovery. It's (the case) based on hearsay."

Singhvi also suggested that the CBI should make the L-G an accused, to which Singh objected, stating that the L-G had no role to play.

The CBI has filed a chargesheet against Kejriwal and others in the Rouse Avenue court.