The Delhi Police’s charge sheet in the Swati Maliwal assault case has revealed significant details, including allegations that Bibhav Kumar, accused of assaulting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP, was seen with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal at the crime scene. The charge sheet, filed on July 16 and acknowledged on July 30, suggests that Kumar, who is currently in judicial custody, and Kejriwal were present together at the Chief Minister’s residence for a substantial period following the incident.
Kumar, facing charges of attempted culpable homicide and criminal force to outrage the modesty of a woman, is alleged to have assaulted Maliwal on May 13. According to Maliwal’s supplementary statement, the unified support from AAP leaders for Kumar hints at a potential larger conspiracy. The charge sheet, which includes statements from around 50 witnesses and spans approximately 500 pages, also notes that selective CCTV footage was leaked to the media before being seized, further suggesting possible conspiratorial elements.
The report highlights that Kumar and Kejriwal’s presence at the scene of the crime requires closer scrutiny, given the latter’s role in public service. The investigation also points to Kumar’s previous criminal record, noting a similar case from 2007 involving charges under IPC sections 353, 506, and 504.
Kumar was arrested on May 18 following an FIR filed on May 16. His bail plea was denied by the Delhi High Court, which cited his potential to tamper with evidence and influence witnesses. The Supreme Court has directed the Delhi Police to respond to Kumar’s bail plea by August 21, questioning his role in Kejriwal’s residence and describing him as a “goon.”
Sources By Agencies
