The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): In a significant diplomatic move on Saturday, 22 March, India expressed its displeasure to a high-ranking official from the German Embassy regarding comments made about the arrest of Delhi’s Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal. George Enzweiler, the Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy, was seen exiting the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi following the summons.
The objection from India stemmed from Germany’s public reaction to the detention of Kejriwal, which India classified as “blatant interference” in its domestic affairs. The German foreign office had previously disclosed on Friday, 22 March, its concerns over Kejriwal’s arrest, emphasizing the expectation for “standards regarding the independence of the judiciary and basic democratic principles” to be upheld.
Sebastian Fischer, speaking for Germany’s foreign ministry, elaborated on the German government’s stance regarding Kejriwal’s arrest, which occurred in the lead-up to the Lok Sabha elections. According to the ministry’s official site, Fischer stated, “We have taken note of the case. India is a democratic country. We assume and expect that the standards relating to the independence of the judiciary and fundamental democratic principles will also apply in this case.”
Further emphasizing the principle of fair treatment under the law, the German statement highlighted, “Like anyone facing accusations, Kejriwal is entitled to a fair and impartial trial, this includes he can make 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.”
This diplomatic exchange follows allegations by the Enforcement Directorate against the leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, accusing him of being the central figure in an excise scam. The agency alleges that Kejriwal, along with other members of the Delhi government, devised the Excise Policy 2021-22 to benefit certain individuals unfairly, marking a significant point of contention in the ongoing political and legal saga.