‘We have been arrested’: Why AAP president arrested at Janakpuri tragedy site

New Delhi: AAP president Saurabh Bharadwaj was arrested by Delhi Police while attempting to offer condolences to Kamal Dhyani, who died after falling into an unguarded pit in Janakpuri, triggering widespread outrage over civic negligence.

Tragic fall at Janakpuri

Kamal Dhyani, a 25-year-old private bank employee, tragically died after falling into an unguarded 20-foot-deep pit dug for sewer work by the Delhi Jal Board in Janakpuri, West Delhi. He remained trapped overnight, and no rescue was attempted despite the pit being observed by passersby and contractors. His body was discovered by family members the following morning.

Political intervention and arrest

While attempting to pay his respects, AAP Delhi unit president Saurabh Bharadwaj was arrested by police at the site. His detention sparked debates over police conduct, with many questioning the necessity of arresting a political leader who was there to offer condolences.

Negligence and civic lapses

Investigations revealed glaring lapses in safety: the pit lacked barricades, warning signs, reflectors, or lighting. Locals noted that open pits and construction debris had remained on the road for months, causing risks to commuters and children. The Delhi government suspended three DJB officials, and charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder were filed against the contractor and concerned personnel.

Public and family outrage

Kamal’s family and friends criticised the delayed response from authorities and emphasised that suspensions alone are insufficient. Advocate Astha Chaturvedi described the incident as “complete carelessness” on part of the DJB. Residents highlighted repeated hazards in the area that had been ignored until the fatal accident.

Ongoing investigation

Police continue to probe the incident, analysing CCTV footage and summoning those responsible. The arrest of Saurabh Bharadwaj remains a controversial element, drawing attention to both civic negligence and political tensions surrounding the tragedy.

The incident at Janakpuri highlights severe civic lapses in Delhi. Kamal Dhyani fell into an open pit dug for sewer work around midnight on Friday. Eyewitnesses informed local contractors, but no emergency action was taken. The absence of barricades, warning boards, and lighting made the area highly dangerous.

Kamal’s family searched multiple police stations during the night but received no meaningful assistance. Following the tragedy, Delhi Police arrested the contractor, a labourer, and notably, AAP president Saurabh Bharadwaj, who had gone to offer condolences. While suspensions of officials were announced, residents and the victim’s family emphasised the need for stricter accountability. Authorities continue investigations, including forensic analysis and CCTV review, as public outrage grows over recurring civic negligence.