In a significant development in the political landscape of India, the India’s apex court has ordered the release of Arvind Kejriwal, a prominent opponent of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on bail. The decision, handed down on Friday, allows Kejriwal to resume his campaign activities in the ongoing national election.
Kejriwal, who serves as the chief minister of the capital city Delhi and is a key figure in an opposition coalition formed to challenge Modi’s leadership, was detained in March amid an ongoing corruption investigation. His imprisonment has been a point of contention, with members of his alliance labeling it as a “political conspiracy” orchestrated by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta of the Supreme Court announced that Kejriwal could be released on bail until June 1, the final day of voting in the six-week-long election process.
The controversy surrounding Kejriwal stems from allegations of corruption related to a policy implemented by his government in 2021, aimed at liberalizing the sale of liquor and relinquishing government stakes in the sector. Although the policy was later withdrawn, the ensuing investigation has led to the imprisonment of two of Kejriwal’s close associates.
Support for Kejriwal has been evident across various major cities in India, with rallies organized in his favor following his arrest. The 55-year-old politician, known for his anti-corruption stance, has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Critics of the ruling BJP, including international rights groups, have raised concerns about the shrinking democratic space in India. The use of government institutions to target political opponents has been highlighted as a worrisome trend by organizations like the US think-tank Freedom House.
The case of Kejriwal is not an isolated incident, with other opposition leaders facing legal challenges. Rahul Gandhi, a prominent figure in the opposition Congress party, was convicted of criminal libel last year, further fueling concerns over democratic norms in the country.
Both Kejriwal and Gandhi are part of an opposition alliance comprising over two dozen parties competing in the ongoing election. However, despite the legal hurdles faced by its leaders, the alliance is viewed as having limited prospects against Modi, whose popularity remains strong, especially among adherents of Hindu-nationalist politics.
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