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Earlier, slapping or pushing led to warnings under Section 107/51 CrPC. Now, stricter sections apply, with evidence collection and court proceedings following FIR registration
The assailant, Rajesh Khimji Sakariya from Rajkot, handed her some papers before shouting abuses and slapping the CM. (News18 Hindi)
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked during a public hearing at her camp office on Wednesday morning, police said. The assailant was identified as Rajesh Khimji. BJP sources said that during the public hearing, the accused handed some papers to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta before attacking her. Senior BJP leader Harish Khurana told a news channel that the assailant slapped the Chief Minister and pulled her hair.
What Are The Legal Consequences Of Slapping
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Slapping someone is considered a crime under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), classified as ‘voluntarily causing hurt’. Under Section 115 of the BNS, slapping someone falls under ‘intentionally causing hurt,’ punishable with up to one year in jail, a fine of up to Rs 10,000, or both. However, Delhi Police have registered an FIR against the attacker of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, charging him with attempted murder.
Punishment Based On Circumstances
The severity of the punishment can vary based on the circumstances. If the slap prevents a government employee from performing their duties, a case can be registered under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (Section 353 of IPC earlier), which may result in up to two years in jail, a fine, or both. If the attack occurs during another serious crime like robbery, the punishment can be more severe.
Intent To Scare
Using criminal force or symbolic attacks intended to scare, without causing physical harm, can still be punishable under the Indian law.
Changes In Legal Procedures
Previously, incidents of slapping and pushing led to preventive action under Section 107/51 of CrPC, where the accused was presented before a duty magistrate and released after a warning. Now, depending on the situation, additional sections may apply. After registering a case under these sections, the investigating officer will collect evidence, and the matter will proceed in court. If found guilty, the accused can face up to one year in prison and may also be fined.
How CM Rekha Gupta Was Attacked
During a public hearing at her camp office on Raj Niwas Marg, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was suddenly attacked by a man while engaging with citizens and listening to their complaints.
The assailant, identified as 41-year-old Rajesh Khimji Sakariya from Rajkot, handed her some papers before shouting abuses and slapping her. Security personnel quickly restrained him and took him into custody, restoring order at the venue.
The Chief Minister, visibly shaken, underwent a medical examination following the incident. Initial police questioning revealed Sakariya’s identity, and authorities are coordinating with Rajkot Police to verify his background.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with investigators exploring whether it was a spontaneous act or a premeditated attempt. Some court papers were recovered from the accused, and police said he also attempted to throw stones at the Chief Minister.
The incident has sparked serious concerns about the security arrangements for the Delhi Chief Minister. The BJP condemned the attack, and officials confirmed that the Union Home Ministry has been informed.
An eyewitness, Anjali, told ANI that the attack was shocking and alarming. She said the incident raised serious concerns about safety during Jan Sunvai, adding that anyone attending should feel secure. “I was present when it happened. The man was speaking and suddenly slapped the Chief Minister. The police acted immediately and took him into custody,” she recounted.
Another eyewitness, Shailendra Kumar, who came from Uttam Nagar to raise a sewer-related complaint, described the scene as chaotic. He said, “The moment I arrived at the gates, there was turmoil because the Chief Minister had been slapped. Such an incident should never occur.”
- Location :
Delhi, India, India
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