Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chief Swati Maliwal filed a police complaint after alleging that she was assaulted in the Chief Minister's residence in New Delhi. The Supreme Court granted interim bail to CM Arvind Kejriwal until June 1 for campaigning in the Lok Sabha elections. The Delhi Police is currently discussing the lodging of an FIR in the case. Meanwhile, newly-elected Supreme Court Bar Association President Kapil Sibal has vowed to keep politics out of the courtroom during his term.
DCW Chief Alleges Assault, Triggers Political Storm
Background:
On May 8, 2019, Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chief Swati Maliwal alleged that she was assaulted by an unknown individual at the Chief Minister's residence in New Delhi. The incident occurred during a late-night meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
Allegations and Investigations:
Maliwal claimed that the assailant forcibly entered the meeting room and attempted to sexually assault her. She said she managed to escape and sought help from the police.
The Delhi Police has registered an FIR against an unknown person under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to sexual assault. Investigations are ongoing.
Political Fallout:
The allegations have sparked a political storm. The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Kejriwal of shielding the accused and demanded his resignation.
Kejriwal has denied the allegations and has filed a defamation suit against Maliwal. He has also accused her of being part of a political conspiracy.
Supreme Court Intervention:
The Supreme Court has granted interim bail to Kejriwal until June 1 to allow him to campaign in the Lok Sabha elections. The court has also directed the Delhi Police to file a status report on the investigation.
Kapil Sibal's Vow:
Newly-elected Supreme Court Bar Association President Kapil Sibal has pledged to keep politics out of the courtroom during his term. He has said that he will focus on promoting professionalism and upholding the rule of law.
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