Delhi HC denies bail to Bibhav Kumar in Swati Maliwal assault case

The Delhi High Court denied bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s aide Bibhav Kumar, who is accused of assaulting AAP Rajya Sabha member Swati Maliwal. Justice Anoop Kumar Mendiratta dismissed Kumar’s bail plea, stating that he enjoys “considerable influence” and no grounds to grant him the relief were made out.

The judge expressed concerns that witnesses may be influenced or evidence tampered with if the petitioner is released on bail. Hence, considering the nature of accusations and the apprehension of witnesses being influenced, no grounds were made out for releasing the petitioner on bail at this stage.

The judge concluded by saying “Application is accordingly dismissed.” Kumar, presently in judicial custody, allegedly assaulted Maliwal on May 13 at Kejriwal’s official residence and was arrested on May 18.

An FIR was registered against Kumar on May 16 under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code. These include criminal intimidation, assault or using criminal force on a woman with the intent to disrobe, and attempt to commit culpable homicide. Kumar had sought bail, claiming the allegations were false and that his custody was no longer required as the probe was over. The Delhi Police opposed his bail plea, stating that releasing him on bail may influence the probe. They also mentioned that the investigation was ongoing and a charge sheet would be filed on or before July 16.