Delhi Police has registered an FIR against former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders for misusing public money by installing large-sized hoardings in Delhi in 2019. The police made this submission in its compliance report filed before Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Neha Mittal on Friday, March 28, 2025. The matter, which involves allegations of violation under the Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, is now under judicial scrutiny, with the next hearing scheduled for April 18, 2025.

Details of the Case

The case dates back to 2019, when a complaint was filed alleging that Arvind Kejriwal, then AAP MLA from Matiala Gulab Singh, and former Dwarka A ward councilor Nitika Sharma had misused public money to promote political messages by installing large-sized hoardings at various locations across the national capital. The hoardings were allegedly intended to influence public opinion and promote AAP’s political agenda, raising concerns about the misuse of taxpayer funds.

Police Submission and FIR Registration

Following a directive issued by the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Neha Mittal on March 11, 2025, Delhi Police lodged the FIR against Kejriwal and others. The judge ordered the police to file the FIR after reviewing the complaint, which highlighted violations under the Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.

In its submission, the police confirmed that:

• Hoardings were placed in public spaces without necessary authorization, thereby violating property defacement laws.

• Public money was allegedly spent on the hoardings, which promoted political messages rather than public welfare.

• The matter required detailed investigation to determine the extent of financial misuse and identify individuals responsible.

Court Proceedings and Next Hearing

During the hearing on March 28, 2025, the court reviewed the police’s compliance report and listed the matter for further hearing on April 18, 2025. The police sought additional time to complete the investigation and gather evidence related to the financial misappropriation.

Allegations and Defacement of Property Act

The allegations focus on violations of the Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 2007, which prohibits unauthorized installation of posters, banners, and hoardings in public spaces. According to the complaint:

• Large-sized hoardings were installed across various areas in Delhi without due authorization.

• These hoardings were allegedly funded using public money and served to promote AAP’s political agenda.

• The act of putting up hoardings without permission amounts to defacement of public property, which is a punishable offense.

Key Figures Involved

The complaint names Arvind Kejriwal, former Matiala MLA Gulab Singh, and then Dwarka A ward councilor Nitika Sharma as the key individuals responsible for authorizing the installation of hoardings that allegedly violated the Act. The FIR filed by the police is expected to examine their roles and accountability in the matter.

Judicial Observations

During the March 11, 2025 hearing, the court directed the police to:

• Investigate the source of funds used for installing hoardings.

• Identify contractors and agencies involved in the printing and installation of hoardings.

• Ascertain whether official approvals were sought before placing the hoardings.

The court emphasized the need for a comprehensive inquiry to determine if there was deliberate misuse of public resources and to hold accountable those responsible for financial irregularities.

Potential Legal Consequences

If the allegations are proven, the Prevention of Defacement of Property Act and other relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) may be invoked, leading to:

• Fines and penalties for violating property defacement laws.

• Criminal liability for individuals involved in the financial misuse of public money.

• Possible disqualification from holding public office if corruption charges are substantiated.

Political Implications for AAP and Kejriwal

This development comes at a sensitive time for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as it prepares for the upcoming elections. The FIR could impact the party’s public image and electoral prospects by raising questions about financial mismanagement and accountability.

Kejriwal’s Response and AAP’s Stand

While Arvind Kejriwal and AAP leaders have yet to formally respond to the FIR, party sources suggest that they deny the allegations and view the case as politically motivated. AAP is expected to challenge the FIR in court, citing lack of evidence and claiming that the hoardings were intended to raise awareness about public welfare initiatives rather than promote a political agenda.

Conclusion

The registration of an FIR against Arvind Kejriwal and others over alleged misuse of public money in 2019 has intensified the legal and political scrutiny faced by the AAP leadership. As the next hearing approaches on April 18, 2025, all eyes will be on the court’s deliberations and the outcome of the police investigation. This case could have far-reaching implications for Kejriwal’s political career and the future of the Aam Aadmi Party.

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