Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday termed the attack on her at a "Jan Sunwai" — a public grievance redressal meeting — as "a cowardly attempt not just on me but on our determination to serve Delhi and the people's cause." She reassured the public that she is recovering and would resume work shortly.
The attacker, Sakaria Rajeshbhai Khimjibhai, from Rajkot in Gujarat, reached the Chief Minister dressed as a petitioner.
He allegedly slapped and pushed her and pulled her hair, but was promptly overpowered by security guards. An attempt-to-murder case has been lodged by the authorities, though the motive is yet to be established.
Ms. Gupta, as per a minister, suffered injuries on her hands and head. Referring to the incident in the evening, Chief Minister said, "Of course, I was shocked after this attack but now I feel fine. I would request all my well wishers not to bother coming to meet me. I will be spotted working among you very soon. Such attacks can never shatter my spirit and determination to serve the public.". Now I will be among you with more dedication and energy than ever before. Jan Sunwai and solving public issues will go on with the same seriousness and commitment as in the past. Your faith and support is my greatest strength.
The office of the Chief Minister said the attack seemed to be premeditated, with video footage depicting the man scouting Ms. Gupta's ancestral home prior to the attack.
The assailant is kept in custody for interrogation by the police. Initial reports indicate that he might have been upset about the detention of a relative. His mother also mentioned that he was fond of animals and had been upset about the Supreme Court directive to re-locate stray dogs to shelters in the Delhi-NCR area.
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