India Summons US Diplomat Over Remarks On Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Gloria Berbena, the Acting Deputy Chief of Mission of the United States, in response to comments made by the US State Department regarding the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The Ministry strongly objected to the remarks, emphasizing the importance of respecting sovereignty and internal affairs in diplomatic relations, particularly among democracies. It highlighted India’s independent judiciary and denounced any casting of doubt on its processes.

India strongly objects to the remarks of the US State Department Spokesperson:https://t.co/mi0Lu2XXDL pic.twitter.com/pa9WYNZQSi

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) March 27, 2024

The meeting between Indian officials and Berbena lasted approximately 40 minutes, following the US State Department’s call for a fair legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal. This move came shortly after a similar summoning of the Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy over remarks made by a foreign affairs spokesperson in Berlin.

The Ministry of External Affairs previously expressed discontent over foreign statements perceived as interference in its judicial processes and undermining the independence of its judiciary. Emphasizing India’s democracy and rule of law, the Ministry asserted that legal matters should be left to proceed independently without biased assumptions.