Is Arvind Kejriwal ready? ED plans for fast-track trial, verdict likely in a year

After getting go go-ahead for a probe against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in an Excise policy case, the Enforcement Directorate is all set to fast-track trial in the alleged money laundering case. according to the sources, the verdict in the case is likely by March 2025.

According to the plan, ED will file a chargesheet against Kejriwal within the next two months seeking the special PMLA court’s permission to frame charges expeditiously so that trial can start. The process will include recording statements of witnesses and cross-examination, which is expected to be completed within the next 2-3 months. 

It is anticipated that the trial will get completed in a year, pertaining a schedule that the agency wants to use as a template for high-profile politicians. "We are seriously looking closely to the time frame so that guilt or innocence can be proved and we are not accused of harassing people for political reasons without having a strong case. There could be several obstacles like multiple petitions to delay the trial, but we are hopeful of successfully negotiating them," said a senior source.

The move has come after the Delhi High Court on Tuesday rejected the petition filed by Arvind Kejriwal against his arrest. Soon after, AAP announced that they would move Supreme Court. However, ED has claimed that they have enough evidence to prove the charges and they are confident of the strength of the case. The investigation agency also claimed that they have enough evidence about the case which cannot be shared as it is confidential.

Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed the application moved by Kejriwal seeking to increase his legal meetings while being in judicial custody in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case. He urged to increase his legal meetings from twice a week to five times a week. The application was rejected by special judge Kaveri Baweja, reserving her verdict on April 5.