Arvind Kejriwal and Hemant Soren, the two CMs under ED scanner: Can they be arrested?

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren are currently being scrutinised by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to money laundering cases. They both failed to appear when summoned by financial investigation authorities. There is growing speculation that both chief ministers could be arrested.

Kejriwal's case involves allegations of financial irregularities related to the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) fundraising as part of Delhi's Excise Policy. Accusations include corruption and receiving unlawful money for its 2022 Goa assembly election campaign. It was suggested that this policy was abused to give out liquor licences to certain dealers who paid bribes. The AAP has repeatedly denied these claims.

Soren is also being investigated by the ED over several allegations, including a land scam case and a corruption case. He is also implicated in accusations from a Maoist group that protection money was provided to individuals close to him. Soren has also failed to comply with repeated summonses from the ED.

While there is speculation about potential arrests, no official warrant has been issued. In accordance with Indian law, chief ministers are not immune from arrest during their tenure, however, there needs to be sufficient reason. Furthermore, chief ministers can continue to hold office during an investigation.

Despite widespread speculation, these reports are so far unconfirmed. Both chief ministers have the support of their respective parties. Kejriwal's AAP has even launched a public campaign to gauge whether Kejriwal should resign or continue his duties from jail if arrested.