In a dramatic turn of events, Union Minister Hardeep Puri has expressed shock and concern over the alleged assault on AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s former aide, Bibhav Kumar. The incident has sparked controversy and political blame games, especially given its timing soon after Kejriwal’s release on interim bail in a separate liquor policy case. Here are the key points of the unfolding situation:
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- Alleged Assault Incident: Swati Maliwal, an AAP MP and former chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women, alleged she was brutally assaulted by Bibhav Kumar, Kejriwal’s former personal secretary, at the CM’s residence.
- Formal Complaints: Maliwal filed a formal complaint detailing the assault, while Bibhav Kumar filed a counter-complaint accusing her of unauthorized entry and verbal abuse, suggesting BJP involvement.
- Union Minister’s Reaction: Hardeep Puri voiced his shock over the assault, highlighting the gravity of the situation and comparing it to a past incident involving the former chief secretary of Delhi.
- AAP’s Initial and Subsequent Stance: Initially, AAP leaders, including BJP MP Sanjay Singh, acknowledged the assault. However, later statements from AAP dismissed Maliwal’s allegations as a conspiracy and labeled her a BJP agent.
- CCTV Footage Controversy: Maliwal accused AAP of tampering with the CCTV footage from Kejriwal’s residence, which reportedly showed her in an argument with security personnel.
- Delhi Police Investigation: Delhi Police conducted an on-site investigation at Kejriwal’s residence, recreating the alleged assault and involving forensic officials.
- FIR Details: The FIR based on Maliwal’s complaint includes serious charges such as attempt to commit culpable homicide and assault with intent to disrobe, among others.
- Court Proceedings: Maliwal’s statement was recorded by Delhi’s Tis Hazari court, further advancing the legal proceedings in the case.
- Political Blame Game: The incident has intensified the political feud between AAP and BJP, with accusations and counter-accusations flying from both sides.
- Public Reaction and Media Coverage: The case has received extensive media coverage, highlighting the political implications and the serious nature of the allegations involved.
