Tensions escalated in West Delhi on Sunday night as Saurabh Bhardwaj, the AAP Delhi President and Health Minister, was detained by the Delhi Police. The detention occurred during a candle march in Janakpuri organized to mourn the death of 25-year-old Kamal Dhyani, who tragically died after his motorcycle fell into an open pit dug for Delhi Jal Board (DJB) work.
The Detention & Allegations
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) claimed that the march was a peaceful tribute, but police intervened before the leaders could even light their candles.
- Social Media Live: While being whisked away in a police van, Bhardwaj went live on social media, alleging that police personnel snatched candles and tore posters of the deceased.
- Alleged Delay in Rescue: Bhardwaj levelled a serious charge against the authorities, claiming that Dhyani’s friends had requested his location from the police on the night of the accident. He alleged the location was shared and then deleted, leading to the victim remaining trapped in the pit overnight, which ultimately caused his death.
Investigation & Arrests
The Delhi Police have intensified their crackdown on those responsible for the “criminal negligence” involving the uncovered pit:
- Second Apprehension: On Sunday, the police detained 23-year-old Yogesh from Firozabad, UP. Yogesh, a laborer, was reportedly present when the accident occurred and informed the sub-contractor but fled the scene without providing help.
- Prior Arrest: This follows the arrest of sub-contractor Rajesh Prajapati on Saturday.
- The Incident: Kamal Dhyani lost his life on the night of February 5 near Andhra School on Professor Jogender Singh Marg. The pit, allegedly dug for DJB pipeline work, was left deep and uncovered without proper barricading.
Political Fallout
The incident has sparked a fresh war of words between the AAP and the Lieutenant Governor’s office over the maintenance of Delhi’s roads and the accountability of the Delhi Jal Board. While the police maintain the detention was necessary to maintain law and order, AAP leaders have termed it an “insensitive” attempt to suppress a demand for justice for a grieving family.