Swati Maliwal, an AAP MP, expressed concerns about her safety and that of her family if bail is granted to Bibhav Kumar, an aide to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the main accused in Maliwal’s assault allegations. Maliwal made these statements during a hearing on Kumar’s bail plea. She accused AAP of victim-shaming and alleged that the party’s social media machinery was being used against her.
Maliwal, a former chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women, accused Kumar of assaulting her during a visit to the Chief Minister’s residence on May 13. While AAP initially acknowledged the incident and stated that Kumar would face consequences, they later accused Maliwal of being part of a BJP conspiracy against Kejriwal.
During the court proceedings, Kumar’s counsel questioned the Delhi Police’s investigation and alleged that Maliwal trespassed into the Chief Minister’s residence. They also questioned the delay in Maliwal filing a police complaint and the addition of certain IPC sections in the FIR.
The Delhi Police, opposing Kumar’s bail plea, argued that intent is not required in cases of assault, especially if the victim’s modesty is outraged. They questioned AAP’s allegations against Maliwal and highlighted Kumar’s termination from service by the vigilance department due to a previous case.
Swati Maliwal expressed fear for her safety if Kumar is granted bail, citing threats she has received. She criticized Kejriwal for associating with Kumar and accused AAP of orchestrating a campaign against her.
The court has reserved its judgment on Kumar’s bail plea until 4 pm. Kejriwal has not directly commented on Maliwal’s allegations but has suggested that Kumar’s arrest is part of a BJP conspiracy against AAP.
