Political Bureau | New Delhi Chronicle
NEW DELHI: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Water Minister Satyendar Jain has been arrested in connection with alleged financial irregularities and corruption involving the Delhi Jal Board (DJB).
The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) in Delhi confirmed the action following an extensive probe into allegations of tender manipulation, criminal conspiracy, and procedural lapses in projects linked to the upgradation of sewage treatment plants under the DJB.
ACB Investigation and Key Arrests
According to statements released by officials, the investigation was initiated after a complaint was lodged by the Directorate of Vigilance highlighting large-scale irregularities in the tendering process.
As part of the probe, six individuals have been arrested so far. Among those taken into custody alongside Satyendar Jain is Udit Prakash Rai, a former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Delhi Jal Board.
Investigators allege that key tender conditions were illegally manipulated to favor specific contractors during the procurement and upgradation process for water treatment infrastructure in the capital.
AAP Terms Action ‘Politically Motivated’
The Aam Aadmi Party strongly refuted the charges, labeling the arrest as politically motivated targeting by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Calling attention to the timeline of the alleged irregularities, AAP leaders pointed out that Satyendar Jain was already incarcerated in Tihar Jail during the period in question.
AAP National Media In-charge Anurag Dhanda questioned the timing and logic of the arrest, asserting that Jain is currently serving as the AAP co-in-charge for Punjab, where state assembly elections are approaching.
Background
Satyendar Jain previously spent over 18 months in custody in connection with a separate money laundering investigation handled by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) before being granted bail in late 2024. This fresh arrest by the ACB marks a significant development in the ongoing political friction between the AAP administration and central investigating agencies in the national capital.
