Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Slapped at Jan Sunwai: Shocking Attack, Stronger Resolve

By Sanskriti Upadhyay

Rekha Gupta Slapped During Jan Sunwai: A Disturbing Attack and Its Bigger Message

On August 20, 2025, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta experienced a shocking assault during her weekly Jan Sunwai (public grievance hearing) at her Civil Lines office. The incident not only startled the political corridors of the capital but also raised serious questions about public safety, security measures, and the challenges leaders face while staying connected with citizens.

The Incident

The Jan Sunwai began like any other—citizens lined up with their applications, complaints, and demands. Among them stood a 41-year-old man from Rajkot, identified later as Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakriya. Carrying papers and pretending to be a petitioner, he approached the CM. Suddenly, he struck her across the face, pulled her hair, and shoved her.

Before the crowd could even process what had happened, security personnel leaped into action, wrestled the man to the ground, and detained him. Chief Minister Gupta, though visibly shaken, was quickly taken for medical evaluation. Fortunately, she did not sustain any major injuries and was declared stable by doctors.

Who Was the Attacker?

The assailant, Rajesh Sakriya, wasn’t an ordinary petitioner. Investigations revealed he had traveled from Rajkot to Delhi specifically for this confrontation. Reports suggest that his motive stemmed from anger over a Supreme Court directive on the handling of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. Sakriya, a self-proclaimed dog lover, allegedly felt that the relocation of strays to shelters was cruel, and this frustration escalated into violent action.

Further police checks uncovered his criminal history—five prior cases including “voluntarily causing hurt” and “criminal intimidation.” His violent background makes it clear that this was not a mere impulsive act but part of a deeper pattern of aggressive behavior.

Legal Consequences

The Delhi Police wasted no time in booking Sakriya. He now faces charges under the attempt to murder provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, alongside sections related to assault and obstructing a public servant from performing duties. Forensic experts are examining his phone and digital records to determine if external groups premeditated or influenced the attack.

Political and Public Reactions

The assault instantly became national news. Political parties across the spectrum condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly act.” While the BJP demanded a deeper probe, alleging a potential conspiracy, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) highlighted repeated security lapses in Delhi’s political sphere.

Ordinary citizens too expressed concern. Many sympathized with Rekha Gupta, appreciating her willingness to meet people directly through Jan Sunwai sessions, but also worried about whether such open formats compromise leaders’ safety.

Rekha Gupta’s Response

What stood out most was the CM’s resilience. Within just two days of the attack, Rekha Gupta resumed her public meetings. Rather than scaling back, she went a step further—announcing that Jan Sunwai sessions would now be held in every assembly constituency, not just at her residence.

Her message was clear: she would not let fear or violence dictate her work. In a heartfelt statement, she remarked,

“This cowardly act was meant to shake me, but I am determined. Every moment of my life is dedicated to Delhi, and women have double the strength to fight through hardships.”

A Wake-Up Call on Security

This attack is not the first on a Delhi CM. Over the past decade, incidents ranging from shoe-throwing to chili powder assaults have targeted city leaders. The Rekha Gupta incident highlights the delicate balance between accessibility and security. Public hearings are vital for democracy, but they must not become soft targets for violence.

Conclusion

The slap on Rekha Gupta was more than just a physical attack—it was an assault on the idea of open governance. Yet her decision to expand Jan Sunwai sessions sends a powerful message of courage and commitment. The event underlines the urgent need for better security protocols, stricter screening of visitors, and stronger deterrents against violence in politics.

As Delhi moves forward, one thing is clear: leaders like Rekha Gupta are determined not to let fear silence public service. The bigger question now lies with the system—will it rise to the occasion and protect the spirit of democracy?

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