The man who attacked Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during the "jan sunvai" at her residence in the capital today has criminal records. The accused Rajesh Bhaiji Khimji from Rajkot, Gujarat had five cases registered against him. In four of them he has been acquitted, while hearing in one of the cases is yet to start. His mother also stated he is suffering from mental issues.
Before committing the act this morning, he is said to have done recce of the chief minister's residence in Shalimar Bagh in North Delhi on August 19, a day before the incident, said the police. The CCTV footage was released by the Delhi CMO in which he is clearly seen getting off a rikshaw and entering a by lane while talking to someone over the phone.
He was earlier booked under sections related to voluntarily causing hurt, causing hurt by dangerous weapon or means and causing grievous hurt, among others.He was taken into custody and shifted to the Civil Lines police station, where he is being interrogated. Delhi Police are verifying his personal details with the help of Gujarat authorities."We have registered an FIR under sections 109 (attempt to murder), 132 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of duty) and 221 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions). Further probe is underway," Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Raja Banthia said in a statement.
Khimji reportedly loves dogs and was angry over the top court order, his mother told the media."My son loves dogs. He was angry after the Supreme Court's order against stray dogs. And left for Delhi soon after. We don't know anything else," said Khimji's mother identified as Bhanuben.She also claimed that the accused suffered from mental illness and had attacked his family members on several occasions.
A similar statement about Khimji's love for dogs has been shared by his neighbour, who told a news agency that the man, originally from Rajkot, Gujarat, used to feed stray cows and dogs.Bhanuben Sakariya, claimed her son was not linked to any political party and had gone to Delhi to protest against a Supreme Court order on stray dogs. "He loves dogs, cows and birds. He was upset after the SC said all stray dogs in Delhi should be captured," she said.
Police sources added that the Ministry of Home Affairs is likely to review the security cover of CM Gupta once Delhi Police submits a detailed report. The chief minister is currently accorded 'Z' category security by Delhi Police as per the MHA's 'Yellow Book' guidelines for VIP protection.
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