Delhi Police has filed a case against Manish Bidhuri, the son of BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri, following allegations by AAP’s Kalkaji candidate, Atishi, that he interfered in the constituency during the “silence period” before the elections.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for South East Delhi confirmed on X that a case was registered against Manish Bidhuri for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). “In this matter, taking cognizance of the complaint against Manish Bidhuri and Ravi Dayama for MCC violation, a legal case under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act has been registered at Govindpuri Police Station,” the DCP’s statement read.
Atishi had earlier alleged that three members of Ramesh Bidhuri’s family were found roaming in the Kalkaji constituency at 1 AM, and Manish Bidhuri himself was seen in the area despite the ban on external interference during the silence period. In response, Delhi Police stated that a vehicle check was carried out with an Executive Magistrate, but no violations were found during the inspection.
The police also mentioned a separate incident involving Atishi and her supporters. “On February 4, at 12:30 AM, AAP candidate Atishi, along with 50-70 people and 10 vehicles, was found at Fateh Singh Marg violating the Model Code of Conduct. The police instructed them to disperse,” the DCP said. As a result, a case under Sections 223, BNS & 126 of the RP Act was registered at the Govindpuri Police Station.
Additionally, the DCP reported that AAP members Ashmit and Sagar Mehta obstructed and assaulted a head constable at Baba Fateh Singh Marg. “At 00:59 hrs, a gathering was reported at the location. When Head Constable Kaushal Pal responded and began videography, AAP members Ashmit and Sagar Mehta obstructed and assaulted him,” the DCP said. An FIR has been filed against them under sections 221/132/121(1)/3(5) BNS at Govindpuri for obstructing public duty and assaulting a police officer on duty.
Atishi, speaking to ANI, stated that Manish Bidhuri and his team were violating the silence period rules by being present in the area with outsiders. “During the silence period, no one from outside is allowed in the constituency. We received information that Ramesh Bidhuri’s team was threatening people in the JJ camp, Girinagar area. We saw Manish Bidhuri with 3-4 outsiders, and I immediately informed the administration. I hope action is taken,” Atishi said.
The “silence period,” observed 48 hours before the elections, prohibits all election-related activity. The Kalkaji constituency has been one of the most closely watched in Delhi, with Atishi contesting against BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri and Congress’s Alka Lamba.
Voting for the Delhi assembly elections will take place on Wednesday, and the results will be announced on Saturday.
