Delhi Lt Governor Backs Swati Maliwal, AAP Alleges BJP Link
21.05.2024: Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has expressed support for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Swati Maliwal amid her ongoing dispute with her party. AAP has responded by alleging that Saxena’s support confirms Maliwal’s affiliation with the BJP.
Lt Governor’s Statement
Saxena issued a statement expressing his distress over the media narrative surrounding the incident. He recounted how Maliwal described her traumatic experience and the subsequent intimidation and shaming by her colleagues. He emphasized that any physical violence and hounding are unacceptable.
“Despite her frequent criticism of me and my office, any form of violence against her is inexcusable,” Saxena stated.
Incident Details
The alleged incident took place in the drawing room of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence, where Maliwal claims she was assaulted by Bibhav Kumar, a close aide of Kejriwal. Saxena noted that AAP MP Sanjay Singh had initially confirmed Maliwal’s account but later reversed his stance, which Saxena found baffling.
AAP’s Response
AAP swiftly responded to Saxena’s letter, suggesting it proves Maliwal’s alignment with the BJP. They accused the BJP of using various tactics, including the Swati Maliwal issue, to tarnish AAP’s reputation amid upcoming elections.
Background
Swati Maliwal, a Rajya Sabha member and former chief of the Delhi Commission for Women, alleges that she was assaulted by Bibhav Kumar during an altercation at Kejriwal’s residence on May 13. An FIR has been filed, and Kumar has been arrested.
Political Reactions
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has remained largely silent on Maliwal’s allegations, instead leading a protest march to the BJP headquarters, accusing the BJP of trying to dismantle AAP through ‘Operation Jhadoo’. The BJP, in turn, accused Kejriwal of protecting his aide while neglecting jailed colleagues like Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain.
As the Delhi Police continue their investigation, the political tussle between AAP and the BJP over this issue intensifies. Saxena assured that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and brought to a logical conclusion.