New Delhi:
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was assaulted on Wednesday morning during a public hearing at her Civil Lines camp office, in what her office described as a “well-planned conspiracy to kill her.”
According to police, the attack took place around 8:15 am. The accused, identified as 41-year-old Sakriya Rajeshbhai Khimjibhai, a resident of Rajkot in Gujarat, has been detained and is being questioned.
Confirming the incident, the Chief Minister’s Office said, “A person attacked Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during ‘Jan Sunwai’ today. Delhi Police has detained the accused and is questioning him.”
Investigators suspect the attack was premeditated. CCTV footage reportedly shows the accused carrying out surveillance at Ms Gupta’s Shalimar Bagh residence nearly 24 hours before the incident.
Past Attacks on Delhi Chief Ministers
The shocking assault on Rekha Gupta is the latest in a string of attacks on Delhi’s chief ministers over the years:
November 30, 2024 – Former CM Arvind Kejriwal had water thrown at him during a padyatra in south Delhi’s Malviya Nagar. The attacker, identified as Ashok Jha, was detained after being caught by supporters and security personnel. While AAP alleged he was a BJP worker, Kejriwal urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to act against rising crime in the capital.
May 4, 2019 – Kejriwal was slapped during a roadshow in Moti Nagar. Standing on an open jeep, he was attacked by Suresh, a 33-year-old spare parts dealer. The assailant was beaten by AAP supporters before being taken into custody. The AAP accused BJP of encouraging such incidents.
October 5, 2016 – In Rajasthan’s Bikaner, ink was thrown at Kejriwal during a condolence meeting. Police arrested Dinesh Ojha, a member of ABVP, a student body linked to BJP. Witnesses said Ojha accused Kejriwal of being “anti-national.”
October 12, 2012 – Former CM Sheila Dikshit faced protests by India Against Corruption activists in Nand Nagri. A slipper was hurled in her direction but fell short. Protesters also waved black flags and blocked her convoy, demanding action against price rises and high power tariffs. Police detained seven protesters, who were later released.
Key Takeaway:
The attack on Rekha Gupta underscores ongoing security challenges faced by Delhi’s chief ministers over the years. From physical assaults to symbolic protests, these incidents highlight the volatile mix of politics and public anger in the national capital.
