**Kejriwal Secures Court Approval for Passport Renewal Amid Legal Challenges**
Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court has granted former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal permission to renew his passport for a period of 10 years. This decision comes as Kejriwal, who is currently embroiled in the Delhi excise policy case, sought a “no objection” certificate from the court to facilitate the renewal process.
Kejriwal’s passport had expired, and according to the regulations set by passport authorities, a court’s “no objection” is necessary for renewal when a criminal trial is ongoing. Despite opposition from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which argued that passport renewals in similar cases are typically granted for only five years, the court ultimately sided with Kejriwal’s request.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) did not formally oppose the renewal but expressed concerns through oral submissions, suggesting that the full 10-year renewal should not be granted. Kejriwal’s legal team contended that a decade-long renewal is justified, as he would still need to seek court permission for any international travel, in compliance with his bail conditions.
Kejriwal clarified that he is not currently seeking permission to travel abroad, as his bail terms restrict such actions without explicit court approval. This ruling allows him to proceed with the passport renewal process, ensuring he remains compliant with legal requirements while addressing his travel needs.
In summary, the court’s decision marks a significant development in Kejriwal’s ongoing legal battles, allowing him to maintain his travel capabilities while navigating the complexities of the excise policy case.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why did Arvind Kejriwal need court approval for his passport renewal?**
A: Kejriwal required court approval for his passport renewal due to ongoing criminal proceedings against him, which necessitate a “no objection” certificate from the court as per passport authority regulations.
