On Wednesday, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked during a weekly public hearing. The incident occurred at the CM's residence during this session. The accused has been detained and is being questioned.
According to officials, while the CM was engaging with the public, a man came forward with a complaint and suddenly slapped her. The accused is now in police custody at the Civil Line Police Station.
Initial information reveals the accused identified himself as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Sakaria, a 41-year-old resident of Rajkot. Sources from the Home Ministry confirm that Delhi Police informed them about the attack on the Delhi CM.
Praveen Shankar, a spokesperson for Delhi BJP, mentioned that under the pretense of discussing a complaint, someone approached CM Gupta, handed some papers, then started shouting and slapped her. However, the Delhi BJP President denied that such an assault occurred.
What did Delhi BJP President say about the attack?
Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva outlined the incident, stating that during the morning's public hearing, CM Rekha Gupta was mingling with the audience. At one point, a person approached, placed some papers, and suddenly attempted to pull her hand. This led to some pushing and shoving, during which her head possibly struck a table corner. Onlookers restrained the individual. Police are investigating the suspect's identity. The CM is in stable condition, has been medically examined, and is recovering from shock. The President assured she's a resilient woman committed to her duties for Delhi and won't be deterred by such incidents. He refuted claims of any stones or slaps being involved.
The alleged attacker of Delhi's CM is reported to be 35 years old. The Delhi BJP has condemned the incident, and BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri expressed the belief that the attack was intended to disrupt the public hearing.
BJP leader Tejinder Bagga expressed surprise and concern over the attack on CM Rekha Gupta during the public hearing, wishing for her protection and speedy recovery, invoking blessings.
The Aam Aadmi Party also condemned the attack, with leader Anurag Dhanda stating that Delhi Police is investigating the matter, reiterating the party's strict stance against such incidents.
Police report that the Deputy Commissioner of Police has arrived at the CM's residence and is conducting an investigation. The former Delhi CM and Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi described the attack as deplorable, emphasizing that democracy allows for dissent, but not violence, and hopes for stringent action by Delhi Police against the perpetrators, ensuring the CM's safety.
Commenting on the event, Delhi Congress chief Devendra Yadav called it deeply unfortunate, saying the CM represents the entire capital and such acts must be condemned. However, this incident highlights deficiencies in women's safety. If the CM herself isn't safe, how can ordinary women feel secure in the capital?
Sources mention that the accused's claimed name and address are undergoing verification, with Delhi Police liaising with Gujarat police for confirmation.