FIR Lodged Against Kejriwal Over Allegations of Misusing Public Funds

New Delhi : Delhi Police has registered an FIR against former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others over allegations of misusing public funds by installing large political hoardings in the national capital in 2019. The police disclosed this in a compliance report submitted before Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Neha Mittal on Friday. The case has drawn significant legal attention, as it revolves around claims that government money was improperly utilized to fund political advertising, potentially violating financial and legal norms.

The allegations stem from a complaint accusing Kejriwal, former MLA Gulab Singh, and then Dwarka councilor Nitika Sharma of installing oversized banners in public spaces. The court, taking cognizance of the complaint, had directed the police to register the FIR, citing a possible violation of the Prevention of Defacement of Property Act. The act prohibits unauthorized advertisements and defacement of public property, making any such violations punishable under law. The complainant argued that the hoardings not only breached municipal regulations but also misused taxpayer money for political gains.

Following the court’s directive, the Delhi Police registered the case and sought additional time to conduct a detailed investigation into the matter. The court has now listed the case for the next hearing on April 18, during which the police are expected to present their findings. The development comes at a time when Kejriwal is already facing legal troubles in other cases, adding to his mounting challenges.

The alleged misuse of public funds for self-promotion has long been a contentious issue in Indian politics, with opposition parties often accusing ruling leaders of diverting government resources for political messaging. If proven, the charges could have serious legal and political implications for Kejriwal and other accused individuals. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has yet to respond officially to the FIR, but sources within the party suggest that they view the case as politically motivated. Meanwhile, legal experts believe that the court’s decision to direct an FIR indicates the seriousness of the allegations and underscores the judiciary’s role in ensuring transparency in the use of public funds.