The incident highlights the security challenges public leaders face, even during controlled interactions. Delhi Congress chief raises concerns over women’s safety.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi, August 20, 2025: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was assaulted by a man during a Jan Sunwai (public hearing) at her official residence on Wednesday, police confirmed. The incident occurred when the man, reportedly in his mid-30s, approached the Chief Minister with some documents and unexpectedly struck her across the face.
Officials said the man initially handed over the papers to CM Gupta and began shouting before suddenly attacking her. Security personnel and aides immediately restrained him and took him into custody. The accused is currently being interrogated at the Civil Lines police station, and authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack. The Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) promptly arrived at the Chief Minister’s residence to oversee the inquiry.
READ: Opinion: HC Rebuke Flags Tribal Rights vs Crony Capitalism in Assam
The Jan Sunwai is a platform where citizens can directly present grievances, petitions, and complaints to the Chief Minister and government officials. It is designed to promote transparency and accountability in governance by allowing residents to seek redressal for issues ranging from civic services to administrative concerns. These sessions often draw large crowds, and CM Gupta has regularly conducted them as part of her outreach initiatives.
VIDEO | Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was allegedly attacked at a ‘Jan Sunwai’ programme at her official residence in Civil Lines. Visuals from outside her residence.
(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/Fv2Dfb0Gxc
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 20, 2025
During the session on Wednesday, several citizens were reportedly waiting to meet the Chief Minister with petitions related to housing, municipal services, and employment issues. Security arrangements were in place, but the sudden nature of the assault caught everyone off guard, highlighting potential gaps in protective measures even in controlled environments.
READ: SC Slams CFSL for ‘Misdirected’ Biren Singh Tape Probe
Even in the past, Delhi’s chief ministers have faced similar attacks during public interactions. When Arvind Kejriwal was Chief Minister, he was assaulted multiple times, including instances when ink was thrown at him during public meetings. These incidents underline the persistent security challenges that leaders face while engaging directly with the public.
In response to the incident, Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav expressed concern over the security lapse and broader implications for women’s safety. “This is very unfortunate. The Chief Minister leads the entire city, and incidents like these must be strongly condemned. It also highlights serious concerns about women’s safety. If the CM of Delhi is not safe, how can ordinary citizens—men and women alike—feel secure?” Yadav said.
