Swati Maliwal :The Controversy Queen on centrestage

The Swati Maliwal case has emerged as a significant controversy, particularly given its timing ahead of the 2024 parliamentary elections. Swati Maliwal, an AAP MP, has accused Bibhav Kumar, a close aide to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, of assaulting her at Kejriwal’s residence. This allegation has set off a series of events and narratives that could potentially impact the image of Arvind Kejriwal.

The incident reportedly took place on May 13, 2024, when Maliwal visited Kejriwal’s residence. She alleges that while waiting to meet the Chief Minister, Bibhav Kumar misbehaved with her, an act she described as “extremely bad.” Following the alleged assault, Maliwal’s statement was recorded by the Delhi Police, and the National Commission for Women (NCW) summoned Kumar for questioning​ .

The narratives surrounding this case are multifaceted. Swati Maliwal has been vocal about her ordeal, emphasizing the severity of the incident and the need for justice. She has also requested that the incident not be politicized, indirectly referencing attempts by the BJP to use the controversy against AAP​ .

On the other hand, the AAP has confirmed the incident but has been cautious in its public statements. Party spokesperson Sanjay Singh condemned the incident and assured that Kejriwal would take strict action against Kumar​ ​. However, during a joint press conference with Akhilesh Yadav, Kejriwal notably avoided questions regarding the case, leading to criticism from opposition parties​ ​.

Born on October 15, 1984, in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, Maliwal completed her schooling at Amity International School, Noida, and later earned a B.Tech in Information Technology from JSS Academy of Technical Education, UPTU. Despite securing a job offer from HCL, she chose to pursue a path in social work, joining Parivartan, an NGO, at the age of 21​ ​.

Her early career was deeply intertwined with social activism and the India Against Corruption (IAC) movement led by Anna Hazare. She played a key role in mobilizing volunteers and was part of the core committee that later evolved into the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)​

Maliwal’s public service career gained significant traction when she was appointed as an advisor to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on public grievances. Her work focused on issues such as women’s safety and child rights, and she was instrumental in initiatives like the Mohalla Sabhas (community meetings) aimed at improving governance at the grassroots level​ .

In July 2015, Maliwal was appointed Chairperson of the DCW by the AAP-led Delhi government. Her tenure has been marked by vigorous campaigns against sexual violence and systemic issues affecting women. Notable initiatives include the “Rape Roko” campaign, demanding stricter laws against rape, and her advocacy for the Unnao rape survivor​ ​.

Throughout her tenure at the DCW, Maliwal has launched several impactful campaigns:Rape Roko Campaign: Initiated after the horrific rape of an 8-month-old baby, this campaign demanded urgent action to prevent sexual violence​ ​.Ched-Chaad Par Hockey Chaar: A campaign focused on women’s safety, emphasizing zero tolerance for harassment​ ​.Menstrual Hygiene Awareness: Advocated for better awareness and rights for women regarding menstrual health in both formal and informal sectors​ ​.

Despite her achievements, Swati Maliwal’s career has been marred by controversies:Nepotism Allegations: Her appointment as DCW Chairperson sparked allegations of nepotism due to her close association with Arvind Kejriwal. Critics claimed she was appointed because she is related to Kejriwal’s wife​ .Corruption Charges: Maliwal faced corruption charges related to alleged irregularities in the hiring process at the DCW. The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) filed a First Information Report (FIR) against her based on complaints of illegal appointments​ ​.Clashes with Authorities: Maliwal has had several public confrontations with authorities, including a notable dispute with the then Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Najeeb Jung, who she accused of obstructing her work. These confrontations have often put her at odds with political adversaries​ ​.

Swati Maliwal’s relentless activism has won her both praise and criticism. Her supporters laud her dedication to women’s issues and her fearless stance against systemic injustices. Critics, however, argue that her methods are sometimes confrontational and can overshadow the causes she champions.

Maliwal was married to Naveen Jaihind, a fellow activist and AAP member. The couple divorced in 2020, citing personal reasons. Her personal experiences, including surviving childhood abuse, have profoundly influenced her activism and public life​ .

Swati Maliwal’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to social justice, particularly in advocating for women’s rights and safety. Her work has undeniably brought significant attention to critical issues, although her tenure has not been without controversy. As she continues her public service, the balance between her activist zeal and the practicalities of governance remains a focal point of her career and public perception.