AAP MP Sandeep Kumar Pathak Challenges Jail’s Decision to Deny Meeting with CM Arvind Kejriwal

AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Kumar Pathak has approached the Delhi High Court after being denied permission to meet Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in jail. The jail authorities had previously allowed Pathak to meet Kejriwal twice in April but later restricted further meetings, citing violations of prison rules.

Justice Neena Bansal Krishna has scheduled the case for further proceedings on Thursday after hearing part arguments from both sides. The jail authorities argued that Pathak’s statements to the media after the meetings were politically motivated and violated prison rules.

In response, Pathak’s plea contends that he did not breach any rules and that restricting political discussions infringes on democratic principles and constitutional rights. He argues that political speech is integral to democracy and should not be restricted unless explicitly prohibited by law or constitutional provisions.

Senior advocate Rahul Mehra, representing Pathak, stated that three people had been permitted to visit Kejriwal, with two currently meeting him. The court directed the jail authorities to provide a formal order explaining their decision to prevent Pathak from meeting Kejriwal.

Pathak’s plea challenges the application of Rule 587, arguing that its scope is limited to conversations during the interview itself and does not extend to statements made afterwards. He requested that the jail authorities be directed to allow him physical visitation and interviews with Kejriwal.