Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has condemned the re-arrest of senior leader Satyendar Jain, declaring that the allegations against him will be “proven fake.” AAP leaders termed the action politically motivated and linked it to upcoming elections.
The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) arrested the former Delhi Water Minister in connection with alleged tender manipulation and irregularities at the Delhi Jal Board (DJB).
Key Details of the Case:
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Allegations: The probe centers on the augmentation and upgradation of 10 Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) in Delhi. According to enforcement authorities, four tenders initially estimated at Rs 1,546 crore were improperly escalated to Rs 1,943 crore before being awarded in October 2022.
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Kejriwal’s Response: In a post on X, Kejriwal accused the BJP of political dictatorship, stating that false charges are repeatedly being used to jail opposition leaders. He emphasized that Jain’s earlier ordeal in custody had already caused significant mental harassment.
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Investigations & Total Arrests: The Directorate of Vigilance alleged criminal conspiracy and tender manipulation. A total of six individuals have been arrested in connection with the DJB case.
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Previous Legal History: Jain was originally arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in May 2022 over money laundering and hawala allegations, remaining in custody for roughly 18 months before securing bail in October 2024.
