“Delhi Sessions Court Denies Bail to Arvind Kejriwal’s Aide Bibhav Kumar Amid Witness Tampering Concerns”

On Friday, a Delhi Sessions Court rejected the bail application of Bibhav Kumar, an aide to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, citing concerns that the accused could influence witnesses if released. Kumar is facing charges of assaulting AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal on May 13 at the Chief Minister’s official residence.

This marks Kumar’s second attempt at securing bail, following the dismissal of his initial plea on May 27. Special Judge Ekta Gauba Mann underscored the ongoing investigation’s preliminary stage and the victim’s continuous threats, asserting the potential for Kumar to intimidate witnesses if granted bail.

“The investigation is at initial stage & there is fear in the mind of victim regarding her security as well as security of her family members as she is receiving continuous threats. There is also every apprehension that applicant or accused Bibhav Kumar would influence the witnesses, if at liberty,” Judge Mann stated. “So, I do not find any merit in the present bail application,” she added.

The court highlighted the gravity of the allegations against Kumar, noting his alleged misbehavior with a woman AAP member at the Chief Minister’s residence, a place open to party members and the public. The court emphasized that such behavior could instill fear and panic among the public regarding interactions with their leader.

Kumar’s counsel argued that his custodial interrogation was unnecessary, given the 21 days since his arrest, and described Kumar as a personal secretary without significant influence. Despite his formal termination a month prior to the incident, Kumar reportedly continued his role in a personal capacity.

Maliwal has claimed ostracism and character assassination by the AAP following her complaint. Additional Public Prosecutor Atul Srivastava countered that Kumar held substantial influence, noting the lack of record-keeping for those meeting Kejriwal, with appointments managed exclusively by Kumar.

Kumar’s initial bail plea was also rejected, with the previous court finding no premeditation in Maliwal’s FIR and deeming her allegations credible. Following his arrest on May 18, Kumar was remanded to police custody multiple times, with judicial custody commencing on May 24.

The FIR against Kumar, registered on May 16, includes charges under the Indian Penal Code for criminal intimidation, assault with intent to disrobe, and attempted culpable homicide. For ongoing and detailed coverage of legal developments, business news, and real-time updates on law and politics, visit Kanishk Social Media. If you found this news article informative, please share it with a friend!