Arvind Kejriwal Arrest: AAP claims ED found 70,000 cash at Kejriwal's residence; BJP calls for Delhi CM's resignation

Arvind Kejriwal Arrest: In a significant turn of events, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) made a decisive move on Thursday night by arresting Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as part of a money laundering probe linked to the liquor policy case. Kejriwal's arrest marks a historic development, as he becomes the first serving chief minister in India to face arrest in a criminal case. This action by the ED transpired hours after the Delhi High Court dismissed Kejriwal's plea seeking protection from arrest.

AAP's Response and Nationwide Protests

Following Kejriwal's arrest, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) made it clear that he would not resign from his position as the Chief Minister of Delhi and vowed to continue running the government even from jail. AAP has called for nationwide protests outside BJP offices in response to Kejriwal's arrest, while the BJP, led by JP Nadda, has demanded his immediate resignation.

Key Updates on Arvind Kejriwal's Arrest

Arvind Kejriwal was taken into custody by the ED and subsequently brought to their office in central Delhi late at night. A team of ten ED officials, led by an additional director-level officer, conducted searches at Kejriwal's residence on Flagstaff Road in Delhi's Civil Lines area before his arrest. The Delhi CM was questioned by officials before being formally arrested.

AAP's Claims and Legal Actions

Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj highlighted that extensive searches were conducted at Kejriwal's residence, revealing only ₹70,000 in cash. AAP leaders stated that the party had moved the Supreme Court for a midnight hearing to challenge Kejriwal's arrest, although reports indicate that no special bench was convened.

Outcry Against Kejriwal's Arrest

AAP leaders, including Gopal Rai and Atishi, condemned Kejriwal's arrest as an assault on democracy and called for protests outside BJP offices nationwide. They accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of orchestrating the arrest due to fear of Kejriwal's influence.

BJP's Stance and Legal Proceedings

In response, the BJP asserted that Kejriwal was facing the consequences of his actions and urged him to step down and cooperate with the ED. Arvind Kejriwal is set to appear in court on Friday, where the ED will seek custody for further interrogation. This arrest marks the 16th in the ongoing case, which has previously included AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh among those detained. Kejriwal had previously skipped nine summonses issued by the ED for questioning.