SC Grants Bail To Bibhav Kumar In Swati Maliwal Assault Case; AAP Expresses 'Heartfelt Thanks'

The Supreme Court has directed that Bibhav Kumar not be reinstated as a personal assistant or assigned any official duties in the Chief Minister's office.

The SC bench consisting of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan also ordered that he must not enter the Chief Minister's residence until all witnesses have been examined.

Kumar allegedly assaulted Maliwal, a Rajya Sabha MP, on May 13 at Kejriwal's official residence.

An FIR was registered against Kumar on May 16 under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code, including those related to criminal intimidation, assault or using criminal force on a woman with the intent to disrobe, and attempt to commit culpable homicide. He was arrested on May 18.

While denying him bail, the high court had said the accused enjoys "considerable influence" and no ground has been made out to grant him the relief.

It added, "It cannot be ruled out that witnesses may be influenced or evidence tampered with in case the petitioner is released on bail."

During a press conference, AAP chief national spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar was asked about the decision.

"Heartfelt thanks to Supreme Court for grating bail to Bibhav Kumar. This matter is sub-judice and it won't be appropriate to comment on it further," she said.