CM Rekha Gupta Assaulted During ‘Jan Sunwai’ Programme – 1 Arrest Sparks Political Uproar
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta was assaulted during a public ‘Jan Sunwai’ programme, triggering chaos and outrage. Police arrested 1 suspect as political tensions rise in the capital
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was allegedly physically assaulted at a “Jan Sunwai” programme at her official residence in Civil Lines on Wednesday (August 20, 2025) morning, the BJP said. According to Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva, the Chief Minister suffered a ‘light blow to the head’.
Mr. Sachdeva met the Chief Minister after the incident and said that doctors have examined her, and she is doing well.
As per initial probe, the accused identified himself as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya (42), a resident of Rajkot, the police said.
Meanwhile, the Gujarat police on Wednesday (August 20, 2025) questioned the mother of the Rajkot man accused of attacking Ms. Gupta, after he was taken into custody in the national capital. Later, his mother, Bhanuben Sakaria, said that her son, an auto-rickshaw driver, was not associated with any political party and had gone to Delhi to protest the Supreme Court’s recent order on relocating stray dogs.
“During the Jan Sunwai this morning, the Chief Minister was speaking with the public, as she always does. A man approached her, presented some paper and suddenly held her hand while trying to pull her towards him. During this, there was some jostling. People nabbed him. Who he is, and all other details, are being investigated by the Police.
“The CM is stable. Doctors have examined her… It seems that she suffered a light blow to her head. The slap or stone-throwing stories are fabricated,” said Mr. Sachdeva.
He further added, “Such incidents in politics are condemnable. Jan Sunwai will continue. The CM is resting right now, but she has said that she will not cancel her programmes.”
Commissioner of Police S.B.K. Singh has headed to the CM’s residence in Civil Lines. The police are analysing the CCTV footage to understand the sequence of events. A senior Delhi Police officer said that the detainee is being interrogated to understand the motive behind the attack.
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that the Chief Minister was fine and alleged that a political conspiracy was behind the attack.
“Her fearless connect with people and unwavering commitment to public service clearly unsettles the Opposition, which is stooping to such shameful tactics,” Mr. Sirsa said in a post on X.
In a shocking turn of events, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was allegedly assaulted during a public interaction programme, commonly known as a ‘Jan Sunwai’, on Tuesday. The incident, which took place in the heart of the capital, has triggered widespread condemnation across political and social circles, highlighting once again the rising concerns over security lapses in high-profile public events.
According to eyewitness accounts, the Chief Minister was interacting with citizens as part of her scheduled Jan Sunwai at a government venue when the accused suddenly lunged forward and attempted to physically assault her. The security personnel accompanying the Chief Minister immediately intervened, preventing further harm. Despite the swift action, the attack left the gathering in a state of panic, with several attendees rushing to safety as chaos unfolded.
Police officials later confirmed that the suspect was overpowered at the scene and taken into custody for interrogation. Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the assault and whether it was a premeditated act or a sudden outburst.
The Delhi Police stated that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the attack. While his identity has not been disclosed publicly, preliminary reports suggest that he is a local resident who had come to the event posing as a participant. Officials are examining his background, affiliations, and any potential political or personal grievances that may have led to the assault.
An FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, and further legal action is underway.
The assault on Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has sent shockwaves through political circles. Leaders across party lines have condemned the incident, calling it an attack not just on an individual but on democratic traditions. Several opposition leaders demanded a thorough probe, while others highlighted the need for stronger security arrangements for public leaders who interact directly with citizens.
The ruling party, on its part, issued a strong statement, asserting that attempts to intimidate or harm elected representatives will not be tolerated. They also emphasized that such incidents undermine the spirit of democracy, where dialogue between leaders and citizens is essential.
This incident has reignited debate over the adequacy of security measures provided to political leaders during public events. Experts argue that while Jan Sunwai programmes are vital for building trust between governments and citizens, they also carry inherent risks, as large crowds make it difficult to fully secure the environment.
Former security officials have pointed out that the assault on a sitting Chief Minister indicates a major lapse that must be reviewed urgently. Questions are being raised about how the accused managed to bypass multiple layers of security and get close enough to physically attack the leader.
The news of the assault has sparked outrage among citizens, with many taking to social media to express solidarity with the Chief Minister and demand stricter safety measures. Supporters of Rekha Gupta hailed her composure during the incident, noting that she continued to interact with citizens after the situation was brought under control.
As investigations continue, the Delhi government is expected to reassess the security protocols for upcoming public programmes. The Chief Minister’s office has confirmed that Jan Sunwai sessions will continue as scheduled, emphasizing that the spirit of democracy cannot be dampened by acts of violence.
For now, all eyes remain on the investigation and the motive of the arrested suspect. The incident has once again highlighted the fragile balance between public accessibility and personal security that India’s political leaders must navigate.
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