Bibhav Kumar, a key figure in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and a close aide to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, finds himself embroiled in controversy after being arrested by the Delhi Police. The arrest follows serious allegations made against Kumar by AAP Rajya Sabha MP and former DCW chief Swati Maliwal, who accuses him of multiple instances of physical assault, verbal abuse, criminal intimidation, and molestation at the official residence of the Delhi CM.
So, who exactly is Bibhav Kumar?
Kumar has been a longstanding associate of Arvind Kejriwal, even predating the inception of the AAP. Initially employed at Kabir, an NGO founded by Kejriwal’s close associate and deputy, Manish Sisodia, Kumar transitioned into the role of Kejriwal’s Personal Secretary, serving as a pivotal link between the CM and his inner circle. He has been described as Kejriwal’s “bridge,” managing everything from the CM’s personal affairs to his professional engagements.
His connection with Kejriwal dates back to the early 2000s when Kumar worked as a video editor for a magazine affiliated with India Against Corruption, the precursor to the AAP. Since then, he has remained a steadfast companion to Kejriwal, assisting him with daily tasks and ensuring his health and well-being, particularly given the CM’s diabetes.
Kumar’s integral role in Kejriwal’s life earned him the moniker “Kejriwal’s Man Friday,” highlighting his significance within the CM’s inner circle. He has been responsible for ensuring Kejriwal’s adherence to his medication and dietary regimen, even during critical moments such as the 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Punjab when the CM faced health issues.
However, Kumar’s tenure has not been without controversy. He faced dismissal from his position as Kejriwal’s personal secretary by the Delhi Vigilance Department due to an “illegal appointment” linked to a 2007 case alleging assault and obstruction of a public servant. Moreover, Kumar was questioned by the Enforcement Directorate earlier this year regarding allegations of evidence tampering in the Delhi excise policy case.
In August last year, the vigilance department directed the Public Works Department to revoke Kumar’s allotment of a Type-VI bungalow, further adding to the scrutiny surrounding his conduct and associations.
Despite the challenges and controversies, Kumar has remained a pivotal figure in Kejriwal’s inner circle, earning the trust and confidence of the Delhi Chief Minister.
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