SC refuses urgent hearing of Delhi CM's plea seeking extension of interim bail by 7 days

New Delhi: The Supreme Court did not agree to quickly hear Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's request to extend his temporary release by seven days for medical reasons in the Delhi excise policy case. The judges said the Chief Justice of India will decide when to hear Kejriwal's request. The judges think it's best if the Chief Justice decides when to hear the request because the case's decision is already pending. The Supreme Court has not yet decided on Kejriwal's plea against his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The court had given Kejriwal temporary bail until June 1 to campaign for the Lok Sabha election and asked him to surrender on June 2. Kejriwal's lawyer asked for an urgent hearing, but the judges said it's a pending matter and they can't do anything. They suggested bringing the matter to the Chief Justice for a decision. Kejriwal's request for an extension is only for medical reasons, not to misuse his freedom. The judges asked why the request wasn't brought up earlier, and the lawyer explained that the medical report was received recently. In his request for an extension, Kejriwal mentioned needing medical tests due to kidney-related concerns. Kejriwal has filed a petition in the Supreme Court asking for a seven-day extension of his bail for medical reasons related to the alleged liquor policy case. He was released on bail on May 10 after being jailed for corruption charges linked to the liquor policy scam. Kejriwal has lost weight and has high ketone levels, indicating a possible serious illness. Doctors advised him to undergo medical tests, so he requested an extension of his bail. Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a case related to the excise policy shortly after the general election schedule was announced. His bail is valid until June 1, and he must surrender on June 2. While on bail, he can campaign but cannot perform his duties as Chief Minister. The Supreme Court imposed conditions on his bail, including not interacting with witnesses or accessing official files related to the case. He is also not allowed to comment on his role in the case or sign official documents unless necessary for approval from the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. The Lok Sabha elections are taking place in seven phases from April 19 to June 1.