A First Information Report was registered against Aam Aadmi Party MLA Somnath Bharti on Sunday for allegedly roughing up security personnel at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Bharti and his supporters tried to enter the hospital premises, damaging a fence with a JCB in the process, The Indian Express reported. At least 300 people were part of the mob, the police complaint noted.
Bharti claimed that the hospital had been “denying legitimate access to Gautam Nagar residents”, and that they had not damaged the wall. According to the police complaint, however, Bharti had claimed that a partition was being built illegally on public property, and tried to demolish it without providing any legal documentation to authorise this. The hospital’s chief security officer said six security personnel were injured in the scuffle, Hindustan Times reported.
However, Bharti on Twitter claimed AIIMS had not followed up on meetings on the issue, and that the Public Works Department had allowed the residents access to the area.
Bharti has been in legal trouble several times in the past. He is out on bail in a domestic violence case filed by his wife. He has also been booked in the past for inciting mob violence, taking out rallies without permission and creating public disorder. He is among a series of AAP MLAs who have been booked by the police in the past few months. On Sunday, a case was filed against another party legislator, Amanutullah Khan for sexual harassment.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!