The Delhi High Court on Friday dismissed a plea filed by Bibhav Kumar, a close aide of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, challenging his arrest in connection with the alleged assault of AAP MP Swati Maliwal. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna, presiding over the case, simply stated, “Petition dismissed.” The Delhi Police had strongly opposed Kumar’s bail plea, arguing that his release could potentially influence the ongoing investigation.
Bibhav Kumar is accused of assaulting Maliwal at the Chief Minister’s residence in New Delhi on May 13th. According to the FIR filed, Kumar allegedly struck Maliwal in her chest, stomach, and pelvic area when she visited the Chief Minister’s residence. This incident led to the registration of an FIR against Kumar on May 16th under various Indian Penal Code provisions, including criminal intimidation, destruction of evidence, assault or criminal force on a woman with the intent to disrobe, and attempt to commit culpable homicide.
Kumar was arrested on May 18th and is currently in judicial custody. He approached the Delhi High Court, seeking to have his arrest declared illegal and demanding compensation. In his plea, Kumar argued that his arrest violated the provisions of Section 41A (notice of appearance before police officer) of the Code of Criminal Procedure and disregarded legal mandates. The Delhi Police countered these claims, asserting that Kumar’s arrest was not hasty and was conducted in accordance with legal procedures.
Kumar’s bail plea was initially dismissed by the trial court and later by the high court. It is currently pending before the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has vehemently denied the allegations made by Rajya Sabha MP Maliwal, accusing her of being involved in a conspiracy against the political party. Prior to these events, videos circulating on social media showed Maliwal engaging in an argument with security personnel and leaving the Chief Minister’s residence on the day of the alleged assault.
