Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta Attacked during ‘Jansunwai’, Attacker Detained
The assailant, identified as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya, a 41-year-old resident of Rajkot, Gujarat, was detained by security personnel and is currently under interrogation by Delhi Police.
NEW DELHI- In a shocking incident, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was allegedly attacked during a “Jansunwai” ( public hearing ) at her official residence on Wednesday morning, prompting widespread condemnation and raising serious concerns about security arrangements for public officials.
The assailant, identified as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya, a 41-year-old resident of Rajkot, Gujarat, was detained by security personnel and is currently under interrogation by Delhi Police. The incident occurred around 8:30 AM IST during Gupta’s weekly Jan Sunwai (public grievance hearing) program, where citizens can directly present their issues to the Chief Minister.
Also Read- Sikkim University Student Arrested for Derogatory Remarks Against Nepali Language
According to media report, Sakariya approached Gupta under the pretense of submitting a petition, possibly related to a court case involving a jailed relative. He handed over some papers before suddenly becoming aggressive, allegedly slapping the Chief Minister, pulling her hair, and hurling abuses. Security personnel swiftly overpowered the attacker, who was then handed over to the police.
“The Chief Minister is stable but in shock, a BJP leader said, emphasizing that Gupta remains committed to continuing her public engagements. “She is a strong woman and will not cancel her programs,” he added. Gupta was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical examination, where doctors confirmed she is stable, though under observation for minor injuries to her hand and shoulder.
The attack has sparked sharp political reactions. BJP leaders, including Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, alleged a “political conspiracy” by rivals, claiming, “They cannot tolerate a Chief Minister who spends hours among the public.” Senior BJP leader Harish Khurana demanded an investigation into possible political motives. Delhi Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh called the incident a “direct assault on democratic values,” while BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj hailed Gupta’s resolve, describing her as “a woman of steel.”
Opposition leaders also condemned the attack. Former Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi stated, “In a democracy, there is a place for disagreement and protest, but there is no place for violence. I hope the Delhi Police take the strictest action.” AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal echoed similar sentiments, urging swift police action.
Also Read- Newborn Dies, Two Injured After Falling from NICU Bed in GMCH
Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav called the incident “unfortunate,” adding, “If the CM is not safe, how can a common person be? ”The Delhi Police, led by Commissioner SBK Singh, have launched a thorough investigation into the security lapse, with additional forces deployed at Gupta’s residence.
Preliminary reports suggest Sakariya may have been motivated by personal grievances, possibly linked to a Supreme Court ruling on stray dogs or a family member’s legal troubles, though his exact motives remain unclear. The police are coordinating with Gujarat authorities to verify his background. The incident has reignited debates over the safety of public officials during open forums like Jan Sunwai, especially given Gupta’s Z-plus security.
Social media platforms, particularly X, saw an outpouring of reactions, with hashtags like #ThappadPolitics trending as users compared the incident to past attacks on political figures like Arvind Kejriwal. As Delhi grapples with this alarming breach, the focus remains on ensuring such incidents do not recur, while Gupta’s determination to continue her public outreach underscores her commitment to serving the capital’s citizens.
