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New Delhi, August 20 — Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was allegedly attacked on Wednesday during her weekly Jan Sunvai programme at her official residence in Civil Lines. The incident has raised serious concerns over the safety of public representatives and the security arrangements at such open forums.

According to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the assault was carried out by a 35-year-old man who first handed over some papers to the Chief Minister and then suddenly attacked her. The accused has been detained and is currently being interrogated, police sources confirmed.

An eyewitness present at the scene described the incident as “chaotic and shocking,” adding that the assailant “seemed prepared.” Senior Delhi Police officials, including DCP North Raja Banthia, rushed to the spot to assess the situation and supervise further investigation.

Providing an update on the Chief Minister’s health, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva informed reporters that Rekha Gupta sustained a minor forehead injury but was declared safe by the attending medical team. He added that the CM will continue with her scheduled engagements and termed the attack a “shameful attempt” to disrupt her growing public outreach.

“The motive behind the attack will be revealed after investigation, but it is clear that such acts are intended to destabilize the Jan Sunvai programme, which has made the Chief Minister immensely popular among the citizens,” Sachdeva said.

The incident triggered widespread condemnation across political parties. BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa called it a “cowardly attack,” posting on X:“Her fearless connect with people and unwavering commitment to public service clearly unsettles the opposition, which is stooping to such shameful tactics. Wishing her strength, safety and a speedy recovery.”

Leader of Opposition Atishi also denounced the attack, stressing the need for non-violence in a democracy:“The attack on Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is highly condemnable. In a democracy, there is a place for disagreement and protest, but there is no place for violence. It is hoped that the Delhi Police will take the strictest action against the culprits.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav said the incident was “a reminder that no one is safe in the national capital.”“Those responsible must face strict punishment, but this also shows that not just women, but anyone is unsafe in Delhi. It is time to wake up, and prioritize law enforcement and women’s safety,” Yadav said.

The Delhi Police have tightened security around the CM’s residence following the incident and are probing whether the attack was premeditated.