A new video has emerged showing the individual who allegedly attacked Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta at her "Jan Sunwai" (public hearing) earlier this week. The video purportedly shows the man at the venue prior to the assault.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning at the Chief Minister's official residence in the Civil Lines area. During the weekly Jan Sunvai, where the public can voice their grievances directly to the CM, a man allegedly attacked Gupta while she was interacting with citizens.
The accused has been identified as Rakesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Saakiya, 35, a resident of Rajkot, Gujarat. Initial reports suggested his name was Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakriya, but authorities are verifying his identity. According to sources, Saakiya handed the CM some papers before allegedly attacking her. He is also accused of pulling her hair and shouting abuse.
Eyewitness accounts detail the swiftness of the attack. One person present at the hearing stated that the assailant began speaking with the CM before suddenly attacking her. Another eyewitness described hearing a loud sound and seeing the police immediately detain the individual. Anjali, who was also present, expressed concern over the security breach, emphasizing the right of everyone to attend Jan Sunvai. Shailendra Kumar, who had come with a sewer complaint, recounted the chaos that erupted after the CM was allegedly attacked.
Following the incident, Chief Minister Gupta was taken to a hospital for a medical examination. While reports indicate she sustained no major injuries, she was said to be in shock. Delhi BJP chief Virendraa Sachdeva stated that Gupta is in stable condition and has not canceled her scheduled programs, describing her as a "strong" woman.
The Delhi Police have arrested Saakiya and are currently questioning him at the Civil Lines police station. They have also contacted their Gujarat counterparts to verify his background, potential motives, and any political affiliations. Police sources indicate that the accused has a criminal history and was previously booked in five cases by Gujarat Police, including one involving a knife attack. He was allegedly booked under sections related to voluntarily causing hurt, use of dangerous weapons, and causing grievous hurt.
The motive behind the alleged attack remains under investigation. However, Saakiya's mother told investigating officials that her son is a "dog lover" and was upset about a recent Supreme Court order concerning the relocation of stray dogs in Delhi. Sources also revealed that one of Saakiya's relatives is currently in jail, and he had come with an application seeking his release, though the matter is still pending in court. Court-related documents were found in his possession.
The Jan Sunvai has been temporarily suspended following the incident. The assault has been widely condemned by political leaders across party lines. Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav called the incident "very unfortunate".