New Delhi: “A cowardly attempt on our resolve to serve Delhi ……. ,” was Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta’s first response after she recovered from the shock of Wednesday morning’s attack on her by a 41-year-old Rajkot resident.
Meanwhile, the Intelligence Bureau and the Special Cell of Delhi Police are interrogating the accused, identified as Sakriya Rajeshbhai Khimjibhai. Officials claimed that he has five criminal cases against him from the past. Two of these were for alleged knife attacks.
Khimjibhai’s mother has, however, claimed that he suffers from a mental ailment and is a dog lover. The recent Supreme Court order, directing authorities to relocate strays from Delhi – NCR, apparently had an impact upon him. She admitted though that he refused to take medicines and is prone to violence.
Gupta was attacked in the morning during a ‘Jan Sunwai’ (public hearing) session at her Civil Lines camp office. Khimjibhai apparently handed over some legal documents to her before striking.
The Chief Minister’s Office described the incident as part of a ‘well-planned conspiracy’ to kill her.
“The attack on me during this morning’s public hearing was not just an attack on me, but a cowardly attempt on our resolve to serve Delhi and work for the welfare of the people. Naturally, I was in shock after this attack, but now I am feeling better. I request all my well-wishers not to trouble themselves by coming to meet me. I will soon be seen working among you again. Such attacks can never break my spirit or my resolve to serve the people,” Gupta posted on X.
“Now, I will be among you with even more energy and dedication than before. Public hearings and the resolution of people’s problems will continue with the same seriousness and commitment as before. Your trust and support are my greatest strength. I express my heartfelt gratitude for your immense love, blessings, and good wishes,” she added.
Soon after assuming charge, Gupta announced her plans to rid the Delhi streets of strays. Several people started blaming her after the Supreme Court order. The matter is now being heard by a three-judge bench after protests from all sections of society.
Raja Banthia, DC (North), Delhi Police, has said that an FIR under Section 109(1) [attempt to murder] of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has been registered at Civil Lines police station against Khimjibhai. He has also been charged for assaulting and obstructing a public servant.
The police have said that Khimjibhai was carrying a bag with clothes and papers. He carried no weapons though, probably due to the security checks at the venue.