The Delhi High Court dismissed a public interest litigation seeking arrangements for Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to run the government from jail, imposing a Rs 1 lakh cost on the petitioner. The court also rejected the request to restrain Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva from pressuring Kejriwal to resign.
The bench stated that since Kejriwal has already approached the Supreme Court, no special facilities are needed while he is in custody. The court also emphasized that it cannot impose censorship on the media or prevent political rivals from making statements.
The petitioner suggested using technology for Kejriwal to govern from jail and requested video conferencing arrangements. The court dismissed these requests and instructed the petitioner to have a bank draft of Rs 1 lakh ready.
The Additional Solicitor General termed the petition as misconceived and driven by ulterior motives. The court’s decision highlights the principles of democracy and freedom despite political tensions.
Published 08 May 2024, 09:41 IST