Here's What SC Told CBI While Granting Bail To Kejriwal: 'Dispel Notion Of Being Caged Parrot'

In a major relief for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the Supreme Court granted him bail in the Delhi excise policy case, just ahead of the Haryana elections.

Kejriwal, who had been in jail for six months following his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21 and later by the CBI in June, is set to be released.

Key points from Supreme Court's ruling:

Perception of CBI: The court highlighted that "perception matters" and urged the CBI to "dispel the notion of being a caged parrot" and operate "above suspicion, like Caesar's wife."

CBI's actions: Justice Surya Kant noted, "No impediment in arresting a person already in custody. We have noted that CBI in their application recorded reasons as to why they deemed necessary. There is no violation of Section 41A (3) of Code of Criminal Procedure."

Questionable timing: Justice Ujjal Bhuyan pointed out inconsistencies in the CBI's actions, stating, "CBI did not feel the need to arrest him (Mr. Kejriwal) even though he was interrogated in March 2023. It was only after his ED arrest was stayed that CBI became active... Such action raises serious questions on the timing of the arrest."

Trial court approach: The court rejected the submission of the additional solicitor general, clarifying that "the appellant does not have to first approach the trial court for bail" and that "the process of trial should not end up becoming a punishment."

Public narrative: Kejriwal was instructed not to make public comments about the case and to attend all trial court hearings unless specifically exempted.