The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has written to Germany on Saturday regarding its statement on the arrest of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate. In a statement issued on Saturday, the EAM stated that India has strongly protested against the comments made by the Foreign Office Spokesperson of Germany regarding India’s internal affairs, as it interferes with the independence of our judiciary.
“The German Deputy Chief of Mission in New Delhi was summoned today and India’s strong protest was conveyed regarding the comments made by their Foreign Office Spokesperson on our internal affairs. We view such remarks as interference in our judicial process and undermining the independence of our judiciary,” stated the MEA in a release.
“India is a vibrant and strong democracy with the rule of law. Just like in all legal cases in the country and elsewhere in the democratic world, the law will take its own course in this particular matter. Biased assumptions made in this regard are completely unwarranted,” the statement added.
The Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy, George Enzweiler, met with the ministry on Saturday.
After Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest on Thursday night, the spokesperson of the German Foreign Ministry remarked that the presumption of innocence is a fundamental aspect of the rule of law and should be applicable to the Delhi CM.
“We have acknowledged that India is a democratic nation. We assume and hope that the standards concerning the independence of the judiciary and fundamental democratic principles will also be upheld in this case. Like anyone facing accusations, Mr. Kejriwal has the right to a fair and unbiased trial, including the ability to utilize all legal options available without any restrictions,” stated the spokesperson of the German Foreign Ministry.
Kejriwal is the first chief minister to be arrested, with other leaders resigning before being taken into custody. AAP leaders have stated that Kejriwal will continue as the Delhi CM, a decision that has been criticized by the BJP.
