 |
|
The Supreme Court of India has posed a crucial question regarding the ability of Delhi's Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, to sign remission files while detained in a case. The Bench, composed of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih, raised this query after learning that the delay in processing remission cases is due to the lack of Kejriwal's signature on the files.
Before a prisoner's plea for premature release reaches the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, the file must be signed by the Chief Minister. This legal requirement has been thrown into question with Kejriwal's current detention. The Court specifically inquired if there were any legal restraints preventing Kejriwal from signing remission files from jail. They also wanted to know if there are any regulations prohibiting the Chief Minister from dealing with premature release files while he is himself in custody.
The Supreme Court's inquiry highlights the complexities arising from the intersection of legal proceedings and the day-to-day functioning of government. The question of whether a detained Chief Minister can still fulfill their constitutional responsibilities has significant implications for the smooth operation of government and the rights of prisoners seeking release. The Delhi government is now expected to respond to the Court's queries, providing clarification on the applicable legal framework and the administrative procedures in place during such situations.
Source: Can't CM Arvind Kejriwal sign remission files from jail? Supreme Court asks