Delhi CM Rekha Gupta attacked during Jan Sunwai; Man detained

New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked on Wednesday during Jan Sunvaai at her residence in Civil Lines. The incident reportedly took place while Gupta was addressing residents at a public gathering organised as part of the Delhi Chief Minister's Jansabha initiative.

The accused has identified himself as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya, and he claims to be a resident of Rajkot.

Party sources said that he (accused) initially handed some papers to the Chief Minister during the public hearing and then allegedly attempted to assault her, they claimed.

According to a senior police officer, the man has been detained, and further inquiry is underway. Senior police officials are currently present at the spot, officials confirmed.

"One person apprehended and taken to Civil Lines Police Station in connection with attack on Delhi CM Rekha Gupta during Jan Sunvai at CM Residence," Delhi Police said in a statement.

Reactions from the public and political leaders

An eyewitness who was present at the time recounted the incident. She said, “She (Rekha Gupta) was listening to the programme when the incident happened. We heard noise coming from behind, and by the time we turned around, the police had taken the attacker away. So yes, the attack did happen, and Rekha ji was completely in shock.”

The Delhi Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) confirmed the incident, stating, “A person attacked CM Rekha Gupta during Jan Sunwai today. The accused has been nabbed by the Delhi Police and is being questioned.”

Former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi also condemned the attack. Taking to X, she wrote, “The attack on Delhi's Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is highly condemnable. In a democracy, there is a place for disagreement and protest, but there is no place for violence. Hoping that the Delhi Police will take the strictest action against the culprits. It is hoped that the Chief Minister is completely safe." 

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva also "strongly" condemned the "attack" on the Chief Minister during her weekly Jan Sunwai programme, the Delhi BJP said in a statement.