In response to reports of the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the United States has stated that it is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of a fair and transparent legal process. A spokesperson from the U.S. State Department underscored the necessity for Chief Minister Kejriwal to receive a fair trial, as per Reuters.
“We encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal,” the spokesperson remarked in an emailed response to queries regarding the case involving the Aam Aadmi Party convenor’s arrest.
Arvind Kejriwal was apprehended by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21, following his repeated mention in the chargesheet filed by the central agency concerning alleged irregularities in a now-defunct excise policy. The ED has alleged that individuals in contact with Kejriwal influenced the formulation of the excise policy, resulting in undue benefits in exchange for kickbacks to the AAP.
The arrest prompted reactions from international quarters, including the German foreign ministry. While acknowledging India’s democratic framework, the German foreign ministry spokesperson emphasized the importance of upholding principles of judicial independence and democracy in Kejriwal’s case.
In response to the German spokesperson’s remarks, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed strong protest, citing interference in internal affairs and undermining judicial independence. The MEA summoned the German Deputy Chief of Mission in New Delhi to convey India’s discontent.
When questioned about India’s protest to Germany, the U.S. State Department spokesperson directed inquiries to the German Foreign Ministry for further clarification. The exchange highlights the international attention drawn to the legal proceedings surrounding Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest and the diplomatic discourse it has engendered.
