Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has called for a fair and thorough investigation into the assault case involving former Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chief Swati Maliwal. Kejriwal emphasised the need for justice, pointing out that the incident has two conflicting versions. In a statement to PTI, Kejriwal said, "I want a fair investigation and justice in the Swati Maliwal assault case, as the incident has two versions." He stressed the importance of uncovering the truth to ensure that justice is served.
In his first response to the alleged assault on AAP MP, Kejriwal called for a fair investigation and emphasised that justice should be served. Swati Maliwal has accused Kejriwal's assistant, Bibhav Kumar, of assaulting her when she visited the Chief Minister's official residence on May 13. Kumar has been arrested, and the police have registered a case against him.
Meeanwhile Maliwal reacted on X and wrote, "After unleashing the entire army of leaders and volunteers at me, calling me a BJP agent, assassinating my character, leaking edited videos, victim shaming me, roaming around with the accused, letting him re enter the crime scene and tamper evidences and protesting in favour of the accused, the Chief Minister, in whose drawing room I was beaten up, has finally said that he wants free and fair investigation in the matter. Irony died a thousand deaths. I don’t buy this one bit."
Kejriwal's statement
In an interview with PTI, Kejriwal stated that the matter is "sub-judice" and refrained from commenting further to avoid influencing the proceedings. "I expect there will be a fair investigation. Justice should be served. There are two versions of the event. Police should investigate both versions fairly and justice should be done," Kejriwal said.
When asked if he was present at his residence during the incident, Kejriwal confirmed he was there but not at the scene of the alleged assault.
Maliwal's allegations
Earlier on Wednesday, Swati Maliwal alleged that there is significant pressure within the party to discredit her. She claimed that a senior party leader informed her of a campaign to defame her, including leaking personal photos and pressuring party members to speak against her. Maliwal warned that those supporting her might face expulsion from the party.
Investigation progress
Bibhav Kumar is currently in five-day police custody. On Tuesday, he was taken to Mumbai to recover data from his phone, which police suspect he formatted before his arrest. Investigators believe he transferred the data to another person or device in Mumbai. Kumar's phone, laptop, and CCTV footage from Kejriwal's residence have been sent for forensic examination. As his police custody ends on Thursday, the investigation team is working to gather all relevant evidence.
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