Bibhav Kumar, a close aide to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, has approached the Supreme Court seeking bail in the high-profile assault case involving AAP Rajya Sabha member Swati Maliwal. According to the apex court’s website, Kumar’s bail plea was filed on July 19 and registered on July 24, following a rejection by the Delhi High Court on July 12.
The allegations against Kumar stem from an incident reported on May 13 at the official residence of Chief Minister Kejriwal, where he allegedly assaulted Maliwal. Following the complaint, an FIR was lodged against Kumar on May 16, encompassing serious charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). These include criminal intimidation, assault or criminal force on a woman with intent to disrobe, and attempt to commit culpable homicide. Kumar was subsequently arrested on May 18.
The Delhi High Court, in denying bail to Kumar, highlighted his “considerable influence” within governmental circles, expressing concerns over the potential influence on witnesses or tampering with evidence if he were granted bail. The court found no compelling reasons to justify the release of Kumar on bail at that stage of the judicial process.
In his plea to the Supreme Court, Kumar has contested the allegations as baseless and asserted that his continued custody is unwarranted given that the investigation has concluded. He challenges the High Court’s order, pushing for judicial reconsideration based on the completion of the probe and the nature of the accusations against him.
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The case has garnered significant attention due to the profiles of the individuals involved and the serious nature of the accusations. Kumar’s current judicial custody and the pending decision from the Supreme Court have highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the treatment of high-profile cases in India’s justice system.
