US echoes Germany's concern over Kejriwal's arrest, urges fair legal proceedings

The US is the second country after Germany that expressed concerns over the arrest of AAP leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, expressing hope for a fair, transparent, and timely legal process

Kejriwal, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), remains in custody of the Enforcement Directorate, prompting international attention and scrutiny.

A spokesperson from the US State Department emphasized the importance of a fair, transparent, and timely legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal. This statement follows Germany's earlier remarks, where the German Foreign Ministry stressed the significance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring an unbiased trial for Kejriwal.

The spokesperson reiterated the presumption of innocence as a fundamental aspect of the rule of law, emphasizing Kejriwal's entitlement to a fair trial with unrestricted access to legal remedies.

However, India's response to Germany's remarks indicates tensions over perceived external interference in its internal affairs. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned the German deputy chief of mission in New Delhi to convey its strong protest, labelling the comments as an infringement on India's sovereignty and the independence of its judiciary.

Kejriwal's arrest marks the second instance of a sitting chief minister being detained in less than two months, adding to the political turbulence ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The timing of Kejriwal's arrest coincides with allegations from the Congress party, accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of financial manipulation to weaken its electoral prospects.