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Influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj Arrested, Gets 1-Day Police Custody

Social media influencer arrested, sent to police custody. Alleged assault sparks outrage.

Mumbai Alert · Politics Desk
Mumbai Alert · Politics Desk
Politics Desk · Mumbai Alert News · Sat, 05 September 2026 at 03:33 pm
Influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj Arrested, Gets 1-Day Police Custody

Social media influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj was arrested and sent to one-day police custody following an alleged assault on a protester's father at Jantar Mantar. The incident occurred during a protest organized by the CJP, and the police subsequently added provisions of the SC/ST Act and criminal intimidation to the FIR.

The counsel for the minor has questioned the one-day police custody, terming it 'very strange'. The police custody was granted after Bhardwaj's arrest, which came after CJP representatives demanded action against him.

The alleged assault on the protester's father sparked outrage, and the CJP demanded that the police take immediate action against Bhardwaj. The police responded by registering a fresh FIR under the POCSO Act for online threats, in addition to the existing charges.

The SC/ST Act provisions were added to the FIR due to the alleged nature of the assault, which is believed to have been motivated by caste-based animosity. The police are investigating the incident and are likely to produce Bhardwaj in court after the completion of his one-day police custody.

The CJP has welcomed the police action, stating that it is a step in the right direction towards holding Bhardwaj accountable for his actions. However, the minor's counsel has raised questions about the fairness of the police custody, citing concerns about the investigation process.

The incident has sparked a wider debate about the role of social media influencers in promoting hate speech and violence. The police are under pressure to ensure that those who use their online platforms to spread hate and intolerance are held accountable for their actions.

In recent times, there have been several instances of social media influencers being accused of promoting hate speech and violence. The incident involving Bhardwaj is the latest in a series of cases that highlight the need for greater accountability and regulation of online content.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the police are likely to reveal more details about the case in the coming days. For now, Bhardwaj remains in police custody, facing charges under the SC/ST Act, criminal intimidation, and the POCSO Act.

The outcome of the case will be closely watched, as it has significant implications for the regulation of online content and the accountability of social media influencers. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for greater vigilance and action against those who use their online platforms to spread hate and intolerance.

In conclusion, the arrest of Swatantra Bhardwaj and his subsequent remand to one-day police custody marks a significant development in the case. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are under pressure to ensure that justice is served. The incident highlights the need for greater accountability and regulation of online content, and the outcome of the case will be closely watched by all stakeholders.

Frequently asked questions

Why was Swatantra Bhardwaj arrested?

Bhardwaj was arrested for alleged assault on a CJP protester's father at Jantar Mantar.

What charges has Bhardwaj been booked under?

Bhardwaj has been booked under the SC/ST Act, criminal intimidation, and the POCSO Act.

swatantra bhardwajcjpsc/st actpocso act
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