Arvind Kejriwal’s Request to Eat Sweets and Mangoes in Jail Opposed by Enforcement Directorate

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is a Type 2 diabetic, has received medication while in jail, but his Aam Aadmi Party has expressed concerns over his fluctuating blood sugar levels and weight loss. At a hearing in Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court, the federal agency rubbished the plea, alleging that despite Mr. Kejriwal’s claims of ill health, he freely consumes sweets and mangoes, which are not advised for diabetes patients. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) claimed that Mr. Kejriwal was laying the groundwork for a bail appeal.

The ED’s legal counsel stated that the Chief Minister is regularly consuming foods not permitted for diabetic patients and that the court has a responsibility to ensure his safety while in custody. On the other hand, Mr. Kejriwal’s legal team insisted that all food items on his diet chart had been prescribed by his doctor and accused the ED of fabricating excuses to stop the supply of home-cooked food, which had been permitted by the court in consideration of the Chief Minister’s diabetes. The court has requested a report from the jail authorities and adjourned the matter for Friday.

Apart from the legal battles over corruption charges, Mr. Kejriwal and the jail authorities are also in a dispute over his health. The AAP claimed that he had lost 4.5 kg after being sent to Tihar Jail. The party spokesperson stated that doctors advised that such a weight drop is very dangerous.

When Mr. Kejriwal was sent to jail under judicial custody, the court allowed him to receive home-cooked food, bottled water, and a supply of toffees in case of a sudden blood sugar fall. The ED’s investigation involves allegations that Mr. Kejriwal played a key role in drafting a now-scrapped policy and sought bribes for liquor licenses. In addition to Mr. Kejriwal, former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh were also arrested.

However, the top court has refused an early hearing for Mr. Singh, who must now wait until April 29 for the court to reconvene and hear the ED’s reply.