Can Attacks Deter My Commitment to Serve the Public? Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Responds
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Synopsis
In the wake of a shocking attack during a public outreach program, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta stands resolute, declaring that such acts will never weaken her resolve to serve the citizens of Delhi. Her heartfelt message emphasizes resilience and dedication to public service, even in the face of adversity.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi CM Rekha Gupta remains resolute in her commitment to serve the public.
- The attack is viewed as a cowardly attempt to intimidate public officials.
- The police have arrested the suspect and are investigating the incident thoroughly.
- CM Gupta has expressed gratitude for the support she has received from the public.
- Security measures for public officials are being reevaluated in light of the incident.
New Delhi, Aug 20 (NationPress) Delhi's Chief Minister Rekha Gupta responded to the assault during her weekly public engagement at her official residence on Wednesday. She labeled the attack as a cowardly act targeting not only her but also her commitment to serve Delhi, emphasizing that such incidents will never weaken her resolve to serve the public.
On the social media platform X, the CM expressed, "The assault on me during the Jan Sunwai this morning is a cowardly act aimed not just at me but at our dedication to Delhi and the welfare of its citizens. I was understandably shaken after this incident; however, I am feeling much better now. I kindly request my well-wishers to refrain from visiting me. I will be back among you shortly, ready to work."
"These attacks will not diminish my spirit or my commitment to serving the public. I will return with more energy and devotion than before. The Jan Sunwai and addressing public concerns will proceed with the same seriousness and dedication as always. Your trust and support are my greatest assets. I sincerely thank you for your love, blessings, and good wishes," she continued.
In related news, the police apprehended the assailant and are currently interrogating him. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
Sources informed IANS that an individual suddenly emerged during the weekly public hearing and threw a heavy object at the Chief Minister. Reports indicate that Chief Minister Gupta fell to the ground following the attack.
The assailant allegedly yelled at Gupta, struck her, and began to verbally abuse her.
An attempt to murder charge has been filed against the attacker, 41-year-old Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya, who targeted Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during the event at her official residence in Civil Lines.
The police stated, "In connection with the assault on the Chief Minister, a case u/s 109(1)/132/221 BNS has been registered at PS Civil Lines. The accused is now in police custody, and further investigations are underway from all possible angles."
The accused has been charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita's Section 109 (attempted murder), Section 132 (obstructing a public servant), and Section 221 (impeding a public servant from performing their duties).
The police further indicated that a team from central agencies and the Special Cell is currently interrogating the suspect.
They plan to request a 5 to 7-day remand of Sakariya to determine the motive behind the attack.
Sakariya traveled to Delhi from Gujarat's Rajkot by train on Tuesday morning. This was his first visit to the national capital, where he stayed at the Gujarat Bhavan in Civil Lines. He later visited CM Gupta's residence in Shalimar Bagh and informed a friend about it via phone, according to police.
Earlier that day, CCTV footage from CM Gupta's residence in Shalimar Bagh emerged showing Sakariya arriving outside the home and making a call. He was observed conducting reconnaissance and filming a video.
The footage suggested that he had pre-planned the assault, as claimed by Delhi Ministers Parvesh Verma and Manjinder Singh Sirsa.
According to police sources, around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, when the accused visited CM Gupta's home in Shalimar Bagh, staff provided him with the address of the Chief Minister's official residence and the timing of the Jan Sunwai.
He returned to the Gujarat Bhavan and spent the night there.
People began arriving for the Jan Sunwai on Wednesday around 7 a.m., coinciding with the Chief Minister's arrival.
Additionally, details about Sakariya's criminal history have surfaced. Police report that at least five cases are registered against him at Bhaktinagar Police Station in Rajkot. He has been acquitted in four cases, while one remains pending in court, with the next hearing scheduled for September 9.
Authorities noted that the Gujarat Police have been notified concerning the case, and official confirmation regarding further details about the suspect is awaited.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge that while this incident is troubling, the resilience demonstrated by Delhi CM Rekha Gupta underscores the importance of unwavering commitment in public service. Such attacks should not deter leaders from engaging with the community, as the essence of democracy lies in transparency and accessibility.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the public outreach program?
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta was attacked while addressing citizens during the weekly Jan Sunwai, which she described as a cowardly act aimed at undermining her commitment to public service.
Who is the attacker?
The attacker, identified as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya, has been arrested and charged with attempted murder and obstructing a public servant.
What measures are being taken by the police?
The police have apprehended the suspect, are conducting interrogations, and are investigating the motive behind the attack while evaluating additional security measures for public officials.
What has CM Gupta said about the attack?
CM Gupta stated that such attacks will not diminish her spirit or dedication to serving the public and reassured her supporters of her return to active duty.
What is known about the assailant's background?
The assailant has a criminal record with multiple cases registered against him at Bhaktinagar Police Station in Rajkot, with one pending case in court.
