NEW DELHI: Delhi's Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, is anticipated to receive his fourth summons from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday. This move is part of the ongoing investigation into an alleged excise policy case.

Kejriwal declined to appear before the ED for the third time on Wednesday, citing concerns over the agency's approach. He criticized their stance as incompatible with legal principles, fairness, and justice, accusing the ED of assuming multiple roles—judge, jury, and executioner.

Presently, the anti-money laundering agency is reviewing a detailed five-page response from Kejriwal, sent in response to their inquiries.

As per the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the agency might issue this fourth summons to Kejriwal. Notably, the AAP leader was previously summoned on November 2 and December 21 in 2023, as well as on January 3 of this year.

The AAP has raised concerns about a potential raid on Kejriwal's residence and his subsequent arrest. They've also questioned the timing of the notice, coming just ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Arvind Kejriwal has criticized the ED for maintaining what he calls "unwarranted secrecy" in the excise policy case.

Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Kejriwal of evading the investigation.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated, "Aam Aadmi Party leaders are making noise that their CM may get arrested anytime... They have committed theft and corruption, and now they are creating a ruckus."

Swaraj, another BJP representative, highlighted, "The ED has issued three summons, but the CM is avoiding the investigation. He seems reluctant to engage."

The case revolves around allegations that Delhi's excise policy for 2021-22, regarding the issuance of liquor trading licenses, facilitated cartelization and favored specific dealers who purportedly paid bribes. The AAP has consistently denied these accusations.

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