Crime & Law · India
Manhunt for Assault Accused Swatantra Bharadwaj Amid Political Claims
Swatantra Bharadwaj, accused of assaulting the father of activist Nishu Azad during a protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, is the subject of a manhunt by Delhi Police. The incident occurred during a demonstration against the NEET exam paper leak. Bharadwaj, who allegedly cracked the victim's skull, claimed in a podcast and interviews that he acted in self-defense and that his actions were justified because his own life was in danger. He also claimed to have political backing, stating that "big leaders" protected him and that "Trump-Netanyahu" couldn't harm him. Nishu Azad stated that Delhi Police had promised to arrest Bharadwaj within 72 hours. Bharadwaj has since fled Bulandshahr. Police have denied claims of political influence and stated that legal action is being taken, with a chargesheet to be filed soon.
How outlets across the spectrum covered it
- Centre (10 votes, 12 outlets): Amar Ujala, Deccan Chronicle, Deccan Herald, Hindustan (Hindi) · Mint (HT Media — 1 vote), Khabar Lahariya, Navbharat Times · The Times of India (Times Group — 1 vote), Patrika, The Free Press Journal, The Lallantop, The Print
- Right (7 votes, 8 outlets): Aaj Tak · India Today (India Today Group — 1 vote), Dainik Jagran, Khabar Fast, News18 Hindi, The Pioneer, Times Now, Zee News (Hindi)