Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was shockingly attacked on Wednesday morning, August 20, during the weekly Jan Sunvai (public grievance hearing) at her residence in Civil Lines. The incident has raised serious questions about security arrangements at the Chief Minister’s residence and the motive behind the assault.
According to sources, the attacker, identified as 41-year-old Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya from Rajkot, Gujarat, entered the Jan Sunvai venue carrying some papers. Eyewitnesses claim that he handed over a document to the Chief Minister Rekha Gupta before suddenly slapping her, pulling her hair, and hurling abuses. Some reports also suggest that a heavy object was thrown at her, causing her to fall. A medico-legal case is underway to assess the extent of her injuries.
The accused was immediately overpowered and detained by security officials. He has been arrested, and Delhi Police, with assistance from Gujarat Police, is verifying his background. Initial investigations reveal that the man had a relative lodged in Tihar Jail and wanted intervention for his release. However, his mother has claimed that he had mental health issues and was obsessed with animal-related concerns.
The Delhi BJP has strongly condemned the attack, with Party President Virendraa Sachdeva stating that a full inquiry is underway. Senior leaders, including Harish Khurana, have hinted at the possibility of a political conspiracy. Meanwhile, opposition leader Atishi from AAP also condemned the assault, stressing that violence has no place in a democracy.
This shocking incident highlights the urgent need for tighter security measures during public grievance hearings. While Jan Sunvai is meant to bridge the gap between citizens and leadership, it must not come at the cost of safety. The investigation will determine whether this was a personal grievance gone wrong or a larger conspiracy against the Chief Minister.