On Wednesday morning, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked during her weekly Jan Sunwai (public hearing) at her official residence in Civil Lines, causing a stir across the capital. The incident, which has raised serious concerns about the security arrangements during public interactions with the Chief Minister, involved a man identified as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya, a resident of Rajkot, Gujarat.
How the Incident Unfolded
Reports indicate that Sakariya, believed to be in his 30s or 40s, first handed some papers to the Chief Minister before suddenly launching an attack. Eyewitnesses have given varying accounts, with some claiming he pulled her by the hand, while others suggested that he struck her. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva clarified that the assailant tried to grab Gupta’s hand, causing a scuffle during which she may have suffered a minor head injury. Despite the shock, the CM is stable and recovering.
Who is Rajesh Sakariya?
Sakariya, currently in police custody, reportedly arrived at the public hearing with a petition related to a relative who is currently in jail. The matter was still pending before the courts. Media reports suggest that Sakariya’s political affiliations have not been confirmed, but he reportedly expressed frustration over political issues before the attack. Police are working with Gujarat authorities to verify Sakariya’s background and details.
Political Reactions
The attack has sparked strong reactions from all political sides. Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa called it a “political conspiracy by rivals” and suggested that some individuals couldn’t tolerate a CM who regularly engages with the public. Kapil Mishra, another Delhi Minister, condemned the attack, calling it an “unforgivable crime” and labeling the perpetrators as “cowards and criminals.”
Opposition leaders also voiced their concerns. Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav questioned the safety of women in the city, stating, “If the CM of Delhi is not safe, how can a common man or woman be safe?” Former Delhi CM and AAP leader Atishi expressed that while democracy allows protest, violence has no place in it. Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi CM and AAP leader, also condemned the attack, emphasizing that differences of opinion should not lead to violence.
Police Response and Security Review
The Delhi Police responded promptly, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) arriving at the scene shortly after the incident. Authorities have launched an investigation, and additional security has been deployed around the Civil Lines residence. The incident has prompted officials to review security protocols for such events, acknowledging a “serious lapse in security.”
Despite the attack, CM Gupta has decided not to cancel her upcoming Jan Sunwai programs and remains committed to her public interactions. Police are continuing their investigation into Rajesh Sakariya’s motives, with further details expected once the questioning is complete.
The attack has sparked both political and public concern, highlighting vulnerabilities in security and raising broader questions about the safety of public figures and women in the capital.
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