In a major escalation, Delhi Police has added POCSO and SC/ST Act charges against accused Swatantra Bhardwaj following complaints of online threats to a minor.

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  • New FIR registered against Swatantra Bhardwaj under POCSO and SC/ST Acts.
  • Action taken following a minor girl's complaint regarding online threats.
  • The case stems from a violent clash during the CJP protest at Jantar Mantar in June 2026.

The legal battle surrounding the Jantar Mantar protest has taken a dramatic turn. The Delhi Police has significantly escalated the charges against accused Swatantra Bhardwaj, adding sections of the POCSO Act and the SC/ST Act to the existing FIR. This development follows a formal complaint by a 14-year-old minor, alleging that she has been receiving online threats, naming Bhardwaj as a primary party involved.

The incident dates back to June 23, 2026, during a demonstration by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi. A father, who was present with his minor daughter, was reportedly assaulted while filming the proceedings on his phone. The victim sustained head injuries caused by blunt objects and was subsequently rushed to RML Hospital for medical treatment.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the addition of POCSO and SC/ST provisions transforms this from a routine assault case into a high-stakes criminal investigation involving child protection and caste-based protections. It highlights the growing intersection of physical violence and digital harassment during public demonstrations.

Legal analysts suggest that the inclusion of these specific acts significantly complicates the legal defense for the accused and underscores the gravity of the alleged harassment.

Swatantra Bhardwaj was apprehended from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh. The arrest gained momentum after a viral podcast clip surfaced, in which the accused allegedly admitted to the assault on the victim's father. The police are now conducting a thorough digital investigation to identify all individuals involved in intimidating the minor via social media.

Historical Background

Jantar Mantar has long been the epicenter of civil protests in India. While it serves as a vital platform for democratic expression, it has frequently been the site of clashes between protesters and authorities, or between different factions, leading to increased police scrutiny and stringent legal actions during large-scale gatherings.

Did You Know?: The POCSO Act is a specialized legislation in India designed to protect children from sexual offenses and harassment, including digital forms of exploitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the new charges against Swatantra Bhardwaj?
The Delhi Police has added the POCSO Act and SC/ST Act sections to his existing FIR.

2. When did the original incident occur?
The original assault took place on June 23, 2026, at Jantar Mantar.