In a major security lapse, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked during a public hearing at her residence on Wednesday morning, her office said, terming the assault as part of a “well-planned conspiracy to kill her”.
She has suffered injuries to her hand and head. A man, in his 40s, approached the CM during a Jansunwai and attacked her.
The attack took place around 8.15 am. The accused, Sakriya Rajeshbhai Khimjibhai (41), a resident of Rajkot in Gujarat, was arrested and booked under attempt-to-murder and other charges. He is being jointly interrogated by the Intelligence Bureau and the Delhi Police’s Special Cell.
The incident has raised serious questions about security, as Rekha Gupta is provided with Z-plus security. Visitors to the Chief Minister’s residence undergo strict checks, including screening of all belongings, before being permitted entry and allowed to go near the Chief Minister. Delhi PWD Minister Parvesh Verma said CM Gupta sustained injuries to her hand, shoulder and head.
Police have registered an FIR under attempt to murder charges in connection with the attack. A case under section 109(1) [attempt to murder] of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been lodged at the Civil Lines police station, Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Raja Banthia said in a statement. He has also been booked for allegedly assaulting and obstructing public servant from discharging his duty.