Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta’s security has been upgraded to include a CRPF cover. The move came after she was attacked during a public hearing, known as a ‘Jan Sunwai,’ at her Civil Lines Camp Office. The incident raised serious concerns about law and order in the capital.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines, Gupta already had a ‘Z-plus’ police security category. However, officials suggested it could be expanded with more personnel and tighter arrangements. Now, the CRPF has added a separate Z-category cover that will not replace but strengthen the existing system.
CRPF Takes Charge of Security
The Union home ministry directed the Central Reserve Police Force to take charge of Gupta’s security on Thursday. A threat perception report from central intelligence agencies led to the decision, PTI reported.
The CRPF’s VIP Security Group (VSG), which also guards home minister Amit Shah and the Gandhi family, will now protect Gupta. Her official residence and Civil Lines Camp Office will also fall under this security cover.
Sources said 35–45 personnel under Z-plus protection will remain, while 20–25 CRPF commandos have joined them. The new measures include tighter access control at her residence, use of security gadgets, and male and female PSOs for close protection when she appears in public.
Restrictions at Jan Sunwai Sessions
Officials confirmed stricter rules for her public hearings. People will no longer be allowed to approach Gupta directly during Jan Sunwai sessions. Instead, complaints will first be verified before reaching her.
A police source told PTI, “Complainants will not be allowed to directly approach the chief minister during 'Jan Sunwai' sessions.” A designated perimeter will also keep visitors at a distance to prevent another attack.
The Attack on Rekha Gupta
The incident happened during a Jan Sunwai at Gupta’s Civil Lines residence. Early reports said a man slapped the CM and pulled her hair before security overpowered him. BJP leader Virendra Sachdeva later called those claims “fabricated.”
Delhi minister Kapil Mishra said Gupta suffered serious injuries and was in “shock,” though she continued working from her residence.
The attacker was identified as Sakriya Rajeshbhai Khimjibhai, a 41-year-old man from Gujarat. Police arrested him on the spot and booked him on several charges, including attempt to murder.
Immediate Implementation of New Protocol
Officials confirmed that the revised security plan will be implemented immediately. The protocols will remain in place for all future Jan Sunwai sessions at the CM’s office.