Delhi High Court Reserves Order on Bibhav Kumar’s Bail Plea in Swati Maliwal Assault Case
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court, after extensive arguments from all parties involved, reserved its decision on Wednesday regarding the bail plea of Bibhav Kumar, aide to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, in the alleged assault case against Swati Maliwal. The court has scheduled the pronouncement of its order for July 12.
During the hearing, Swati Maliwal, present in court, recounted her ordeal, stating, “Not only was I brutally assaulted by the PA, but later the Chief Minister himself came to protect him. Numerous press conferences were held by Delhi Ministers making baseless allegations against me, causing immense shame.”
Expressing concerns over her safety and that of her family, Maliwal added, “My life and my family’s are in threat. Even details of the car I used for medical purposes were made public. I seek justice.”
Senior Advocate Sanjay Jain vehemently opposed Bibhav Kumar’s bail plea on behalf of Delhi Police, citing, “Bibhav wields significant influence despite being dismissed from government service, drawing a salary equivalent to a joint secretary. His influence poses a risk of tampering with evidence and witnesses.”
In defense, Senior Advocate N Hariharan argued for Bibhav Kumar, highlighting procedural lapses and asserting, “The delay in filing the FIR and the circumstances surrounding the incident raise significant questions. There was no prior appointment; she barged in. It’s implausible that a political secretary would assault a sitting MP.”
Responding to the day’s proceedings, advocate Rishikesh Kumar, representing Bibhav Kumar, stated, “The investigation is nearing completion with all evidence collected and the complainant’s statement recorded. We’ve pleaded for bail considering these factors, despite opposition citing tampering risks. The court will deliver its verdict on July 12.”
Bibhav Kumar, arrested on May 18 following allegations of assaulting AAP MP Swati Maliwal, continues to face legal proceedings amid ongoing concerns over witness influence and victim safety, reflecting a contentious chapter in Delhi’s political and legal landscape.
