Supreme Court grants bail to Kejriwal in corruption case

On September 13, India's Supreme Court granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after he spent six months in jail. The court determined that his extended detention constituted an unjust deprivation of liberty, particularly given the lengthy duration expected for the case to conclude. Kejriwal, who has consistently claimed that the corruption charges against him are politically motivated, is facing allegations from the Central Bureau of Investigation regarding a $1 billion bribery scheme linked to a liquor licensing policy in Delhi. Alongside him, other leaders from his party, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), including Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, have also been arrested in connection with the case. Despite his incarceration, Kejriwal has maintained his role as Chief Minister, continuing to govern from jail. However, the Supreme Court has imposed restrictions on him while out on bail, prohibiting him from attending office, making public statements, or signing official documents. This ruling has drawn attention not only within India but also from international observers, including the U.S. State Department, which is monitoring the situation closely, particularly regarding the treatment of political opposition in the country. Kejriwal's AAP has gained significant traction in recent years, winning elections in both Delhi and Punjab, which has positioned him as a prominent figure in Indian politics. The ongoing legal battles and political tensions surrounding his case reflect broader issues of political rivalry and governance in India, especially in the context of his opposition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The implications of this case extend beyond Kejriwal himself, as it raises questions about the integrity of political processes and the potential misuse of investigative agencies for political gain. The outcome of this case could have lasting effects on the political landscape in India, particularly for opposition parties and their leaders.