Delhi CM Attack: AAP, Congress Condemn Incident, Raise Safety Fears

The attack on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta prompted strong condemnation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress. The assailant, identified as 41-year-old Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya from Rajkot, Gujarat, was detained by Delhi Police, who are investigating the motive, with sources suggesting his frustration over a relative’s arrest or a Supreme Court ruling on stray dogs in Delhi-NCR.

Former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal denounced the attack on X, stating, “In a democratic system, differences of opinion and opposition are acceptable, but there can be no place for violence. I am confident that Delhi Police will take appropriate action.” Leader of Opposition Atishi echoed, “The attack on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is highly condemnable. In a democracy, there is space for dissent and opposition, but none for violence,” urging strict police action and wishing for Gupta’s safety. AAP’s Saurabh Bharadwaj condemned the incident, noting, “The people of Delhi are unhappy with Gupta, but violence is not the solution,” contrasting AAP’s stance with past BJP remarks justifying attacks on Kejriwal.

Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav called the attack “extremely sad,” highlighting its implications for women’s safety. “If the chief minister is not safe, how can a common man or woman be safe?” he said, urging Delhi Police to address the broader issue of security in the capital. The incident, where Sakariya allegedly slapped Gupta and pulled her hair after presenting a petition, has raised questions about the safety of public officials, especially as Gupta, under Z-plus security, was hospitalized for observation but reported stable.

Also Read: Yamuna Drops Below Danger Mark, Delhi Government Vigilant

The attack sparked a political firestorm, with BJP leaders like Manjinder Singh Sirsa alleging a “political conspiracy” by rivals unable to tolerate Gupta’s public engagement. Posts on X from @PTI_News and @ndtv noted the incident’s trend with hashtags like #DelhiCMAttack, reflecting public outrage and calls for accountability. Both AAP and Congress, while condemning the violence, criticized Delhi Police, under the Union Home Ministry, for failing to ensure safety, amplifying concerns about law and order in the capital.

Also Read: Delhi CM Bonds with School Children at Heartwarming Raksha Bandhan Celebration