Court Denies Bail to Arvind Kejriwal’s Aide Accused of Assaulting AAP MP Swati Maliwal

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 8th June. A court on Friday rejected the bail plea of Bibhav Kumar, an aide to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who stands accused of assaulting AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal. The court deemed the charges against him as “grave and serious,” expressing concerns that he might influence witnesses.

Bibhav Kumar, who was placed under 14 days judicial custody last Friday, allegedly assaulted Maliwal on May 13 at the Chief Minister’s official residence. This marks the second time his bail plea has been dismissed, the first being on May 27.

Special Judge Ekta Gauba Mann remarked, “The investigation is at an initial stage, and there is fear in the mind of the victim regarding her security… There is also every apprehension that the applicant… would influence the witnesses if at liberty.” Consequently, the judge found no merit in the bail application and dismissed it.

The court highlighted the severity of the allegations against Bibhav Kumar, noting that the incident had created fear among the general public to meet their leader, Arvind Kejriwal, at his official residence.

Bibhav Kumar’s counsel argued that his client’s custodial interrogation was unnecessary, emphasizing his position as a personal secretary without significant influence. However, the prosecution countered, asserting Bibhav Kumar’s influence within the party and his role in facilitating meetings with the Chief Minister.

Maliwal, in her complaint, alleged ostracization by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) following the incident, accusing some party leaders of character assassination. The prosecution reiterated the seriousness of the allegations, including criminal intimidation and assault.

Bibhav Kumar’s arrest on May 18 led to subsequent judicial and police custody, with an FIR registered against him on May 16 under various sections of the Indian Penal Code,  including those related to criminal intimidation, assault or criminal force on a woman with the intent to disrobe and attempt to commit culpable homicide.