Delhi High Court against Kejriwal: Government on stand still, priority should be given to national interest

NEW DELHI: Delhi High Court against Arvind Kejriwal, who is in jail after being arrested in liquor corruption case, continuing as Chief Minister. The court said that while Kejriwal's decision to remain as chief minister was personal, it was against the national and public interest for the incumbent to stay away for a long period of time and remain in limbo without being available for communication. The bench chaired by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan was considering a public interest petition filed by a voluntary organization pointing out issues such as non-distribution of study materials to government schools despite the start of the academic year. The Delhi government came to a standstill after Kejriwal's arrest. State Chief Ministers should be available 24 hours a day, especially in the national capital. A full-time chief minister is essential to deal with crises including natural calamities. The High Court criticized that now political interest is ahead of national interest.

The absence of a Chief Minister should not lead to the denial of fundamental rights of children. The court directed the municipal corporation to provide study materials to the children. The court also criticized the Delhi government for failing to take action.

Hearing will continue

The hearing in the Supreme Court on the petition filed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal questioning his arrest in the liquor case and the trial court's decision to keep him in ED custody will continue tomorrow. During the hearing today, the bench headed by Justice Sanjeev Khanna asked why the bail application was not given in the trial court. Adv Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Kejriwal, questioned the time and manner in which the arrest was recorded.

Visitation permission for Sunita

Tihar Jail authorities gave permission to Kejriwal's wife Sunita Kejriwal and Education Minister Atishi to meet him today. On Sunday, the Aam Aadmi Party had alleged that Sunitha was denied visitation permission. Atishi noted on X that necessary instructions have been received for providing facilities in schools and ensuring water availability in Delhi.

BJP files defamation case

A defamation case has been filed against Kejriwal and Delhi Minister Atishi who alleged that they were offered crores to join BJP. The case was filed by BJP Delhi unit leader Praveen Shankar Kapur. The Delhi Rose Avenue Court will hear the matter on May 4.