Following the attack on Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, which occurred during a public hearing, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has strongly condemned the incident. Leaders across the party, including Arvind Kejriwal, the National Convener, have spoken out against the attack, labeling it as an assault on democracy and demanding strict action against the perpetrators. Kejriwal took to social media to express his condemnation, asserting that while differences of opinion are acceptable, violence has no place in a democratic society. He expressed his hope that the Delhi Police would take appropriate action and wished the Chief Minister safety and well-being.
Saurabh Bharadwaj, the AAP’s Delhi State President, emphasized the party’s commitment to non-violence, rooted in the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. He questioned the entities that promote violence in society. Bharadwaj expanded on the definition of violence, including instances of police brutality against students, teachers, and farmers exercising their rights. He also condemned police overreach in minor cases, reiterating that the judiciary holds the authority to administer punishment.
Bharadwaj also stated that the AAP would not attempt to rationalize the attack by citing any public dissatisfaction with Rekha Gupta. He affirmed that violence is never justifiable. He urged the BJP to recognize that violence is wrong in principle, and for all parties to condemn this type of attack. He also criticized the BJP’s past attempts to justify attacks on Kejriwal and stressed that violence should never be condoned.
Atishi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, echoed these sentiments, condemning the attack and advocating for the enforcement of justice and the rule of law. She also offered her well wishes for the Chief Minister’s safety. Anurag Dhanda, AAP’s National Media Incharge, reiterated the party’s stance against violence and called for a comprehensive police investigation, promising appropriate punishment for the perpetrators while wishing for the safety of Rekha Gupta.