In a deeply disturbing incident that has shocked many, Swati Maliwal, the Chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW), was reportedly assaulted at the residence of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The alleged assailant, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Bibhav Kumar, has been accused of slapping Maliwal 7-8 times, kicking, and beating her.
The Incident
The assault occurred during a meeting at Kejriwal’s home, intended to discuss critical women’s safety issues. According to her allegations, while she was waiting to meet Arvind Kejriwal, Kumar entered the room and began verbally abusing her before repeatedly hitting her without cause. An officer stated, “She further claimed that she reported the incident and asked him to stop abusing her, but he refused to stop.”
The officer claimed she was assaulted by Kumar on the face, chest, stomach, and lower body, after which she fled and called the PCR.
Bibhav Kumar allegedly lost his temper and attacked Swati Maliwal in the presence of other party members. Witnesses claim that despite the alarming situation, the assault continued unabated, highlighting a significant lapse in security and intervention.
Public Reaction
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from various quarters. Women’s rights activists, political leaders, and the general public have expressed their shock and demanded swift justice. Social media platforms have been abuzz with calls for accountability and justice for Maliwal. Many are questioning the safety of women within political spaces and the culture of impunity that seems to prevail.
Political Repercussions
This incident has severe implications for the Aam Aadmi Party, which has long championed women’s rights and safety as core issues. The alleged involvement of an AAP MP in such a violent act against a prominent women’s rights advocate is a severe blow to the party’s credibility. Arvind Kejriwal, known for his strong stance on corruption and social justice, faces mounting pressure to take decisive action against Bibhav Kumar and address the internal issues within his party.
Legal and Institutional Response
Swati Maliwal has filed an official complaint, and investigations are underway.
IPC sections 354, 506, 509, and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) are the ones under which the FIR against Kumar has been lodged. Section 354 deals with assault or use of criminal force on a woman with the aim to disrobe, while section 506 deals with criminal intimidation.
The Delhi Police have assured a thorough and impartial probe into the matter. Meanwhile, the DCW and various women’s organizations are rallying to ensure that the case is not brushed under the carpet and that justice is served.
Conclusion
The assault on Swati Maliwal at the home of Delhi’s Chief Minister is a grim reminder of the pervasive issues of violence against women, even in the highest echelons of power. It underscores the urgent need for stringent measures to protect women and hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their political standing. As the investigation unfolds, the hope remains that justice will prevail, and such incidents will spur systemic changes to ensure the safety and dignity of all women.
