Today(on 27th May), AAP’s Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal broke down in court during a hearing on an alleged assault at CM Arvind Kejriwal’s residence. This followed claims by Bibhav Kumar’s lawyer that Maliwal strategically chose a CCTV-free spot, suggesting she wielded authority.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
DELHI: Today(on 27th May), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal broke down in court during a hearing on the alleged assault at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence. This emotional moment occurred after Bibhav Kumar’s lawyer argued that Maliwal had deliberately chosen the location of the alleged incident on May 13 because it lacked CCTV coverage, potentially preventing any recording of the event. According to the lawyer, Maliwal is “Exerting authority and controlling the situation.”
Swati Maliwal, the former chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women, expressed her concerns to the Tis Hazari Court, stating that if Bibhav Kumar were granted bail-
“There’s a threat to my life and my family’s.”
The court session was convened to address a bail plea filed by Bibhav Kumar, a close aide of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Kumar’s judicial custody is due to end tomorrow, following a four-day extension granted on May 24.
Bibhav Kumar’s lawyer fiercely defended his client, asserting-
“The entire incident was premeditated. Baseless accusations aimed at tarnishing my reputation, perhaps due to her misconception that I prevented her from meeting the Chief Minister.”
He further elaborated on the specifics of the location where the alleged assault occurred, noting-
“The drawing room (at Kejriwal’s residence) where the alleged incident occurred lacked CCTV coverage. This deliberate choice allowed her to make allegations conveniently, knowing there would be no surveillance footage.”
The lawyer emphasized the gravity of Maliwal’s actions on May 13, claiming they “amount to trespass.” He questioned the legitimacy of her presence at the Chief Minister’s residence, stating-
“Is it acceptable for anyone to enter such premises without permission? Being an MP doesn’t grant unrestricted access. Her actions seemed provoked, with a premeditated agenda to cause trouble. Despite her frequent visits, trespassing is not justified.”
Regarding the police FIR filed by Maliwal, which includes a section on “assault with intent to disrobe,” the lawyer argued-
“The accusations fail to substantiate any intent to disrobe her. Such intent carries a vastly different connotation. To draw a parallel from ancient times, it resembles an offense akin to that committed by the Kauravas against Draupadi.”
ALSO READ:Swati Maliwal Assault Case | Kejriwal’s PS Bibhav Kumar, Remanded to Judicial Custody Until May 28
As the court deliberates on the bail plea, the case has garnered significant attention, highlighting the complexities and high stakes involved. The hearing is set against a backdrop of intense political drama and legal battles, making it a focal point of media coverage and public scrutiny.
Swati Maliwal’s emotional plea highlights the profound personal and professional impact of the case on her life. Her apprehensions regarding her safety and that of her family mirror the wider anxieties surrounding the security and well-being of public figures entangled in legal disputes.
The Tis Hazari Court’s decision on the bail plea will be crucial in determining the next steps in this high-profile case. As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes remain on the courtroom, awaiting the outcome that will undoubtedly have significant implications for all parties involved.
In the court hearing, Swati Maliwal, a prominent political figure, addressed the court about the continuous harassment she has faced since reporting an alleged assault.
“They (AAP) have mobilized an army of trolls. The entire party machinery is in action. There have been incessant press conferences targeting me. This individual (Bibhav Kumar) exhibits concerning behavior.”
-said the Rajya Sabha MP, emphasizing the extent of the backlash she has encountered.
Maliwal’s statement highlights the intense political friction between her and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The accusations have led to a flurry of media coverage and public debates, with both sides presenting their narratives.
Her lawyer supported her claims in court, pointing out Bibhav Kumar’s non-cooperation with the police investigation.
“If Swati Maliwal indeed trespassed, as claimed by Bibhav Kumar’s lawyer, then why hasn’t a complaint been filed? While her medical examination occurred several days later, it still holds significance and cannot be disregarded.”
-he argued, challenging the validity of the accusations against her.
The Delhi Police counsel also weighed in on the matter, providing a different perspective on the alleged trespassing incident.
“Why label it as trespassing when she was asked to wait at the Chief Minister’s residence? She wasn’t the one trespassing; Bibhav was the trespasser.”
– the counsel stated, refuting the claims made against Maliwal.
ALSO READ: ‘Kejriwal Asked Close Aide Bibhav To Assault Me’: Swati Maliwal Tells Cops | NCW Vows Legal Action
The unfolding of these events has placed Maliwal at the center of a political storm, with her facing continuous scrutiny and attacks from various fronts. The accusations and counter-accusations have not only raised questions about the incident itself but also about the larger political dynamics at play.
