The Delhi Police on Wednesday apprehended one person in connection with the alleged attack on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during a Jan Sunvai (public hearing) at her Civil Lines residence. The accused has been taken to the Civil Lines police station for questioning.
Confirming the development, the police said, “One person has been apprehended and taken to Civil Lines Police Station in connection with the attack on Delhi CM Rekha Gupta during Jan Sunvai at CM Residence.”
The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) also issued a statement: “A person attacked CM Rekha Gupta during Jan Sunvai today. The accused has been nabbed by the Delhi Police and is being questioned.”
Eyewitnesses described the incident as sudden and shocking. Anjali, who was present, said, “This is wrong. Everyone has the right to Jan Sunvai. The man was speaking, and suddenly he slapped her. Police immediately took him away.” Another attendee, Shailendra Kumar, recounted, “I had come with a complaint when chaos broke out because the CM was slapped. This is wrong.”
A detailed account from another witness suggested the accused handed over some papers to the CM, then grabbed her hand and tried pulling her towards him, causing jostling. “The CM is stable. Doctors have examined her. She suffered a light blow but is fine. The stories of stone-throwing or slapping seem exaggerated. Such incidents are condemnable, but the Jan Sunvai will continue,” the person added.
Political leaders across parties condemned the incident. Delhi LoP Atishi said, “The attack on Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is highly condemnable. There is space for dissent in a democracy, but no place for violence.” Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav termed the attack “unfortunate” and questioned the CM’s security, adding, “If the CM of Delhi is not safe, how can a common man or woman feel safe?”
The incident comes shortly after CM Gupta’s visit to Yamuna Bazaar, where she assured residents affected by rising Yamuna waters that there was no flood-like situation in the capital and relief measures were being carried out.
Police are continuing their investigation into the accused’s identity and motive.
