A defamation suit has been filed against Rajya Sabha member Swati Maliwal following allegations that she referred to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs as “bhed bakri” in a social media post. The case has been initiated by AAP MLA Dr Amandeep Kaur Arora from Moga, Punjab, who claims the remarks were deeply derogatory and intended to insult elected representatives of the state. The complaint has now triggered a legal and political controversy between the ruling party and the former AAP member.

According to Dr Arora, the defamation case has been formally submitted in a local court in Moga, with the first hearing scheduled for May 19. She stated that the disputed remarks were made on the social media platform X, where Swati Maliwal allegedly used the phrase “bhed bakri” while referring to AAP legislators. Arora argued that such language not only undermines the dignity of elected representatives but also weakens public trust in democratic institutions by portraying lawmakers in a humiliating manner.

Dr Arora, who also holds the position of Punjab women's wing president of the AAP, strongly condemned the statement attributed to Maliwal. She maintained that MLAs are constitutionally elected representatives who work for public welfare and should not be subjected to derogatory comparisons. Arora further asserted that political disagreement must remain within the boundaries of respectful discourse, especially when it involves public figures responsible for legislative duties and governance.

Also Read: Delhi Police Detain Influencer ‘The Skin Doctor’ In Ongoing Investigation

In her response, Arora also highlighted her professional and public service background, stating that she worked as a qualified doctor for seven years before entering politics. She added that many of her fellow MLAs also come from respected professional fields such as medicine, law, and education. According to her, reducing such individuals to insulting labels ignores their contributions and undermines the seriousness of legislative work carried out in the Punjab Assembly.

The controversy has gained further political attention due to Swati Maliwal’s reported political realignment, with claims that she recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party along with six other individuals. This development has intensified the already strained political environment between AAP leaders and opposition voices, with both sides exchanging sharp remarks in the public domain. The situation has added another layer of tension to the ongoing political dynamics in Punjab and Delhi.

The matter is now expected to be examined in court, where both legal sides will present their arguments in the coming hearing. Officials associated with the case have not issued additional public comments beyond the filing of the complaint. As the legal process begins, the case is likely to draw continued political and media attention, particularly given the involvement of prominent political figures and the sensitivity surrounding public statements made on social media platforms.

Also Read: Petrol And Diesel Rates Unchanged On May 14 In Delhi, Mumbai And More Cities