Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Attacked During Public Hearing; Attacker From Gujarat Arrested

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was assaulted on Wednesday morning during her weekly Jan Sunwai (public hearing) at her Civil Lines residence, triggering shockwaves across the political spectrum and raising questions about VIP security.

The incident occurred when a man, posing as a petitioner, approached Gupta with some papers. Moments later, he suddenly grabbed her hand, pulled her towards him, and reportedly struck her lightly on the head. The Chief Minister, though shaken, sustained only a minor injury. She was immediately taken for medical observation and is stated to be stable.

The assailant was identified as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya, a 41-year-old auto-rickshaw driver from Rajkot, Gujarat. According to police sources, Sakariya had been disturbed over a recent Supreme Court order concerning the relocation of stray dogs. His mother confirmed that he was a known animal lover with a history of erratic behaviour, though she denied any political links.

CCTV footage recovered from the vicinity revealed that Sakariya had carried out a detailed recce of Gupta’s Civil Lines office and Shalimar Bagh residence at least 24 hours before the attack. He even spent the night nearby, suggesting the assault was premeditated rather than spontaneous.

Following the incident, Delhi Police registered a case under attempt to murder provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The accused has been remanded in custody and is being interrogated by the Special Cell and the Intelligence Bureau.

Political reactions were swift. Leaders from the BJP, AAP and Congress condemned the attack. While BJP officials flagged possible conspiratorial angles, AAP leaders demanded introspection from the ruling party over lapses in security arrangements. The episode has reignited debate about the safety of top public figures during open-house meetings like Jan Sunwai, where accessibility often compromises protective barriers.

Despite the assault, Gupta has indicated she will not scale back public interactions and intends to continue with her official schedule.