Arvind Kejriwal accuses CBI, ACB of trying to frame him

NEW DELHI: Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday alleged that Central Bureau of Investigation and Anti-Corruption Bureau had started picking up files randomly from Delhi Jal Board.

Kejriwal alleged that because he is now the minister in charge of water, there is an attempt to “somehow frame him in something”. The central probe agency has denied these allegations.

The chief minister challenged PM Narendra Modi and LG Anil Baijal to investigate if they have any “specific information” or else “apologise to Delhiites for this witch-hunting exercise.” Kejriwal also sought time to meet the LG on Monday to “discuss some important matters”.

In September 2017, Kejriwal took charge of water — the first portfolio taken by him after he became the chief minister in 2015. Kejriwal is the chairman of Delhi Jal Board.

Kejriwal took to Twitter to say, “CBI n ACB started randomly picking files from DJB. No specific enquiry. Becoz now I am min-in-charge, their effort is somehow to frame me in something. PM, LG n BJP — If u hv specific info, pl investigate. But don’t victimise Delhi’s people by paralysing all depts of Delhi government (sic).”

He added, “I will put out in public domain list of all files sought by PM’s CBI n LG’s ACB. PM n LG should explain reasons for seeking those files. Else they should apologise to Delhiites for this witch hunting exercise (sic).”

Earlier this week, Kejriwal hit out at the Centre alleging interference in Delhi’s governance and lauded his government for overcoming the odds in order to deliver.

“I am told PM is very angry wid present LG. PM thinks Mr Baijal not creating sufficient obstacles. Becoz despite all obstacles by LG, Delhi government doing phenomenal work for people. That’s the reason Mr Jung was also removed (sic),” he tweeted. “My sources tell me that PM wants LG to do everything possible to stop AAP govt’s good work in education, health, water and electricity. We will not let that happen (sic).”

Kejriwal’s reaction had come in response to a tweet by Rahul Mehra, the Delhi government’s standing counsel, who lauded the government for its outstanding effort in improving the quality of education in the state.