The Delhi Government has appointed senior advocate Pradeep Rana as the Special Public Prosecutor in the high-profile case concerning the attack on Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
Tis Hazari Court is hearing the case that arose from an August 20 incident in which a visitor assaulted Gupta during a public grievance meeting and injured her.
Officials confirmed that Rana will present the state’s arguments in court, ensuring that the investigation and trial proceed swiftly. The decision underscores the administration’s resolve to pursue accountability in crimes targeting public officials.
According to investigators, the accused, identified as Sakaria Rajeshbhai Khimjibhai from Rajkot in Gujarat, approached the Chief Minister during an open-house event and suddenly launched an attack.
He allegedly described himself as a dog lover and claimed he wanted to raise issues concerning animal welfare. Gupta suffered minor injuries before security personnel overpowered the attacker.
Sakaria Khimjibhai, who is currently lodged in Tihar Jail, reportedly kept 15 to 20 dogs at his village and had staged a hunger strike in Ayodhya in May over animal issues.
Police sources said he also had a history of erratic behaviour, including self-harm and domestic disputes. He works as a rickshaw puller and has a wife and child.
Accused’s Background and Legal Record
Investigators revealed that between 2019 and 2024, five criminal cases were registered against Khimjibhai at Bhaktinagar Police Station in Rajkot.
Four of these cases ended in acquittals, while one remains under trial. These cases reportedly involved charges of causing grievous hurt and breach of peace.
His mother, Bhanuben, appealed for leniency after the Delhi incident, saying her son acted out of his passion for animals and that the family was poor. She urged the Chief Minister to forgive him, adding that he is a devout follower of Lord Mahadev and often visits Ujjain.
The appointment of a Special Public Prosecutor signals the Delhi Government’s intent to tighten security around public hearings and safeguard elected representatives.
Senior officials noted that attacks of this nature erode public trust and require a robust legal response.
Rana, known for his experience in sensitive criminal cases, will press for stringent action against the accused while ensuring transparency and fairness in the trial.
The proceedings in Tis Hazari Court will continue over the coming weeks, with the state expected to submit further evidence.
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