Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s recent assertions about significant weight loss during his time in custody have been contradicted by data released by Tihar Jail authorities. Kejriwal, who was arrested in connection with a money laundering case related to the Delhi Liquor policy scam was granted interim bail by the Supreme Court until June 1. Despite his claims of drastic weight loss, Tihar Jail’s records show relatively stable weight measurements during incarceration.
Kejriwal’s legal team had petitioned the Supreme Court seeking an extension of his interim bail by seven days, citing medical complications allegedly resulting from negligent treatment by jail authorities. They claimed that Kejriwal, who suffers from an aggressive form of ‘diabetes mellitus’, experienced fluctuations in blood glucose levels, leading to episodes of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Additionally, his lawyers asserted that Kejriwal had lost 6-7 kilograms during his time in custody and exhibited symptoms such as giddiness, palpitations, and lethargy.
However, data provided by Tihar Jail reveals a different narrative. According to the senior medical person in Tihar Jail, Kejriwal’s weight remained relatively stable during his judicial custody period. Weight measurements recorded from April 1 to May 9 show only minor fluctuations, with no evidence of the drastic weight loss claimed by Kejriwal and his associates. Contrary to assertions made by AAP leaders, there is no indication from Tihar Jail records of a 7-kilogram weight loss within a month during Kejriwal’s time in custody.
This discrepancy raises questions about the accuracy of Kejriwal’s claims regarding his health condition and the treatment he received while in custody. Despite his assertions of experiencing severe health issues, including unexplained weight loss and elevated ketone levels, the Tihar Jail data presents a conflicting picture.
AAP leaders, including Delhi minister Atishi, echoed Kejriwal’s concerns about his health and supported his plea for extended interim bail to undergo comprehensive medical tests. They claimed that Kejriwal’s weight had decreased by 7 kilograms during his time in ED custody after his arrest and his high ketone levels could indicate serious medical ailments, including kidney damage or cancer.
Previous claims made by AAP regarding Kejriwal’s weight loss have also been refuted by Tihar Jail records, indicating a pattern of misinformation.
The controversy surrounding Kejriwal’s health claims adds another layer to the ongoing legal battle stemming from allegations of corruption and money laundering related to the Delhi government’s liquor policy. Despite multiple summons from the Enforcement Directorate and his subsequent arrest, Kejriwal maintains the illegality of his detention.
