Union Minister Chirag Paswan took decisive action Thursday, filing a formal police complaint against Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj for what he calls a blatant misuse of his name and reputation. The move comes after Bhardwaj publicly invoked Paswan's name while boasting about political protection following a violent assault at Jantar Mantar in July.

Key facts

  • Complaint filed September 4, 2026 with Parliament Street police
  • Seeks FIR against Swatantra Bhardwaj for false claims
  • Assault occurred during July protests at Jantar Mantar
  • Police have added multiple charges including attempt to murder

A reputation on the line

Paswan's legal representative, advocate Sushil Kumar, submitted the complaint with striking clarity: the minister and his Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) want absolutely no association with Bhardwaj or his actions. The document explicitly requests that police formally record that neither Paswan nor his party have any connection to the influencer.

What sparked this unusual step? A resurfaced video clip showing Bhardwaj casually discussing the July assault while namedropping political figures. "Kapil Mishra is my elder brother... Chirag Paswan is my elder brother... I have everyone's support," he claimed in the recording.

Standing with victims

Paswan's complaint carries emotional weight beyond personal reputation. It explicitly states his party's support for student activist Nishu Aazad and her father, Sanjay Kumar—the man Bhardwaj allegedly assaulted. The minister described the situation as "extremely serious," noting how Bhardwaj openly admitted to violence that "could possibly have led to their death."

"In public life, many people come to meet us, put their point forth. But if on that basis they claim to be personal acquaintances, then that is a misuse of our name," Paswan stated Friday.

Legal momentum builds

While Paswan seeks protection from false associations, Delhi Police have significantly expanded their case against Bhardwaj. The existing FIR now includes Section 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for criminal intimidation, plus provisions of the SC/ST Act, attempt to murder, and grievous injury charges.

In a separate development, police registered a fresh FIR under the POCSO Act based on a minor victim's complaint about online threats and harassment. The case incorporates stalking charges and IT Act violations concerning obscene material.

Paswan has urged police to conduct an impartial investigation, warning that failure to act would "set a very wrong example before the country and the people." His commitment to justice for the assault victims appears genuine—a rare moment where political positioning aligns with moral imperative.