Tensions between Germany and India escalated after remarks by the German Foreign Ministry on the arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal sparked a diplomatic uproar yesterday. India summoned Georg Enzweiler, Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Delhi, seeking explanations for the contentious statement.

Ministry sources revealed that the MEA lodged a strong protest with the German envoy concerning the 'blatant interference' in India's internal matters by the country's foreign office. Enzweiler was observed departing from the Ministry of External Affairs office in the national capital's South Block. The envoy's visit followed the issuance of an official statement by the German Foreign Ministry on the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Earlier, the spokesperson of the German Foreign Ministry stated, "We have taken note, India is a democratic country. We assume and expect that the standards relating to the independence of the judiciary and basic democratic principles will also be applied in this case. Like anyone facing accusations, Mr Kejriwal is entitled to a fair and impartial trial, which includes making use of all available legal avenues without restrictions. The presumption of innocence is a central element of the rule of law and must apply to him."

Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal was remanded to ED custody until March 28, a day after the probe agency arrested him for alleged money laundering in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.

During the court proceedings, the ED alleged that the Delhi CM was the key conspirator and kingpin in demanding kickbacks from businessmen. The agency further claimed that Kejriwal was directly involved in the formation of the excise policy. The ED counsel asserted that Vijay Nair, who served as the media in charge of AAP, was working under the direction of Delhi CM Kejriwal.

Special CBI judge Kaveri Baweja of the Rouse Avenue Court issued the order after the Delhi CM was brought before the court, following his arrest by the central agency. The case pertains to alleged irregularities and money laundering in framing and implementing the Delhi excise policy case 2022, which was subsequently annulled.

AAP leader Gopal Rai announced that the party has scheduled a 'gherao' at the prime minister's residence on March 26 to protest against Kejriwal's arrest by the ED. Notably two senior AAP leaders, Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, are currently in judicial custody in the excise policy case. Sisodia, the former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister, was apprehended by the CBI on February 26 after undergoing several rounds of questioning. Sanjay Singh, a Rajya Sabha member, was arrested by the ED on October 5.

Image source: India Tv