New Delhi: India summoned US’ Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gloria Berben, in a protest over US State Department spokesperson’s remarks on Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in Liquor Policy Case.
During a 40-minute meeting on Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs said, “We take strong objection to the remarks of the Spokesperson of the US State Department about certain legal proceedings in India.
Releasing its statement the MEA said, “In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others.”
“This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents. India’s legal processes are based on an independent judiciary which is committed to objective and timely outcomes. Casting aspersions on that is unwarranted,” the MEA added.
Earlier on Monday, the US State Department spokesperson said, “We encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal.” Today, India reacted officially to the unwarranted statements from foreign officials.
This is the second time a foreign element intervened in Indian legal proceedings, in last two weeks. Before US, India already objected to Germany’s response to Kejriwal’s arrest. George Enzweiler, the deputy head of mission of the German embassy was summoned by the MEA to express official concerns. The reaction came as Germany expressed its apprehension for a fair and impartial trial for Kejriwal.
Kejriwal’s arrest came into action after corruption and money laundering allegations related to the excise policy case. Following his arrest for corruption in the liquor policy, the Delhi court has extended his custody until March 28.
