Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked on Wednesday morning at her Civil Lines residence during her weekly public hearing session. The assailant, identified as 41-year-old Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya from Rajkot, Gujarat, allegedly held the CM by her hair and injured her head and hand before security staff intervened.
Chaos During Public Hearing
Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene when Sakariya approached the CM under the pretext of submitting a complaint. Holding a few papers, he suddenly lunged at her, hurled abuses, and attempted to physically assault her. BJP leader Kapil Mishra, present in the area, claimed the attacker pinned Gupta to the ground, suggesting an intent to cause severe harm.
Reconnaissance Prior to Attack
Preliminary investigations reveal that Sakariya had been conducting reconnaissance in Delhi over the previous 24 hours. He had reportedly visited the CM’s Shalimar Bagh residence the day before the incident. Delhi minister Parvesh Verma confirmed that the accused was seen loitering around the area earlier. BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa observed that Gupta’s open-door approach—meeting citizens without heavy security—might have been exploited by the attacker.
Motive Behind the Assault
According to his mother, Bhanu Ben, the assailant was deeply disturbed by a pending Supreme Court decision concerning stray dogs. Known for his attachment to animals, he allegedly travelled to Delhi driven by this grievance. While political links are being probed, investigators have yet to establish any concrete evidence of political motivation.
Injuries and Immediate Response
Chief Minister Gupta sustained minor injuries, including head bruises, after her head hit a table during the scuffle. She underwent a medical examination and was declared stable, though visibly shaken. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva dismissed claims that the attacker used a stone or slapped her, clarifying that the assault occurred when the man pulled her towards him.
Political Leaders Condemn the Incident
The attack drew strong condemnation across party lines.
-
Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav labelled it “highly unfortunate” and raised concerns about women’s safety in the capital, questioning how ordinary citizens could feel secure when the Chief Minister herself was attacked.
-
Former CM Atishi said, “In democracy, disagreements exist but never violence,” urging stern action by Delhi Police and wishing Gupta a safe recovery.
Assailant Arrested
Law enforcement officials have arrested Rajesh Bhai Sakariya and are questioning him to ascertain the full motive and background of the attack. Further investigation is underway.