Centre Withdraws CRPF Z-Security Cover for Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

The Centre has withdrawn the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Z-category security cover granted to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The protection responsibility has once again been transferred to the Delhi Police. Official sources confirmed the decision on Monday morning, stating that Gupta will now be secured under the protocols of the Delhi Police instead of the CRPF. This change comes only days after Gupta was attacked during a public hearing event in the Civil Lines area of the capital.

Rekha Gupta Had Received Z-Security After Recent Attack

Rekha Gupta was provided Z-category security by the CRPF following a shocking attack earlier this month. On 20 August, during a “Jan Sunwai” program at her office in Civil Lines, a man attacked her with sharp intent. The Chief Minister’s Office described the attack as a “planned conspiracy to assassinate” her. Following the incident, the Union Home Ministry directed the CRPF VIP security wing to immediately deploy Z-category protection. This security protocol is among the highest levels of protection reserved for key political leaders, ministers, and other individuals under threat.

Change in Security Arrangements

Despite the initial decision to grant CRPF protection, the Centre has now altered its plan. Sources revealed that the CRPF deployment order was to be issued formally but was reconsidered before execution. Instead of enhancing her security cover, the decision was made to withdraw CRPF involvement. As a result, the responsibility of safeguarding Delhi CM Rekha Gupta now rests solely with the Delhi Police once again. This move has generated debate among political circles and security experts about the consistency of VIP security policies.

Attack on the Chief Minister

The 20 August incident has remained in focus since it raised serious concerns about the safety of the Chief Minister. During the Jan Sunwai program, held to address grievances of citizens, a man identified as Rajeshbhai Khimji Sakaria attacked her. Sakaria, a 41-year-old resident of Rajkot in Gujarat, allegedly attempted to harm the Chief Minister while she interacted with the public. The Delhi Police immediately intervened, controlling the situation and arresting the attacker. Gupta narrowly escaped without major injuries, though the incident caused widespread shock and condemnation.

Investigation Into the Attack

Following the attack, Delhi Police launched a detailed investigation. So far, two individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, including the prime accused, Rajeshbhai Khimji Sakaria. Investigators are probing Sakaria’s background, financial history, and possible links to any groups or individuals who may have influenced the attack. According to police officials, the attempt appeared premeditated, and the angle of conspiracy is not being ruled out. The Chief Minister’s Office insisted that the attack was part of a larger plan to eliminate her, making the matter more sensitive.

Political Reactions After the Incident

The attack on Delhi CM Rekha Gupta drew sharp reactions from across the political spectrum. Supporters of the Chief Minister alleged that lapses in security arrangements allowed the attacker to get close to her. Opposition leaders criticized the state government for failing to anticipate such threats. The Home Ministry’s immediate decision to provide CRPF Z-category cover was initially seen as a corrective measure to strengthen her protection. However, the subsequent withdrawal of CRPF involvement has once again sparked political debates.

What Z-Category Security Means

Z-category security is one of the most important VIP protection categories in India. It is provided to individuals considered under high threat perception. The cover usually consists of around 22 security personnel, including commandos armed with sophisticated weapons. The CRPF VIP security wing typically manages such protection, ensuring round-the-clock safety of the protectee. Only a limited number of politicians, judges, and businessmen receive this category of security. In Gupta’s case, the decision to grant Z-category security highlighted the seriousness of the threat she faced.

Transfer of Responsibility Back to Delhi Police

Despite these security concerns, the Centre has decided that the Delhi Police will now handle Gupta’s protection. The Delhi Police already provide security to several VVIPs in the capital, but critics argue that the force is overstretched. With responsibilities ranging from law and order to VIP protection, the withdrawal of CRPF involvement is seen as reducing the strength of Gupta’s security cover. Officials, however, insist that Delhi Police is capable of ensuring the Chief Minister’s safety under existing arrangements.

Speculation Behind the Withdrawal

The sudden reversal has led to speculation about why the CRPF protection was withdrawn. Some political analysts suggest that administrative changes and resource allocation may have influenced the decision. Others argue that since the attack took place within Delhi, the state’s own police force is best suited to protect the Chief Minister. There are also theories that political factors could have played a role, given the sensitive relations between the Centre and the Delhi government. Officially, the reason remains undisclosed, but the change has created confusion among observers.

Arrest of the Main Accused

The main accused, Rajeshbhai Khimji Sakaria, remains in police custody. Initial interrogation has revealed little about his motives, though investigators suspect personal grievances or political manipulation. Police are checking Sakaria’s phone records, online activity, and connections in Gujarat and Delhi. A second suspect was also arrested for possible involvement in the attack. Authorities are exploring whether others were part of the conspiracy to target the Chief Minister. The case continues to be treated with utmost seriousness.

Public Concern Over Security Lapses

The incident and the shifting security cover have raised public concern. Citizens and political supporters worry about the safety of the Chief Minister. Many fear that lapses in protection could embolden attackers in the future. Public confidence in security arrangements has been shaken, especially since the CM’s office described the attack as an assassination attempt. The withdrawal of CRPF protection has therefore come as a surprise to many who expected enhanced security measures.

Security Policies for VIPs Under Scrutiny

This case has brought attention to the larger issue of VIP security policies in India. The system has often been criticized for being inconsistent and politically influenced. Security covers are granted or withdrawn based on threat assessments made by central agencies. However, the lack of transparency often leads to controversy. In Rekha Gupta’s case, the quick grant and sudden withdrawal of CRPF Z-category cover reflect these concerns. Experts argue that threat perception should be the sole criterion, not administrative or political factors.

Delhi Police’s Ongoing Role

The Delhi Police have assured that they are fully capable of handling Gupta’s protection. Senior officers claim that security around her residence, office, and public events has been tightened. Special units have been deployed to monitor threats, and coordination with intelligence agencies has been increased. The police are also conducting vulnerability assessments to ensure that the Chief Minister remains safe during public interactions. Authorities have stated that the focus remains on preventing any repeat of the 20 August incident.

Implications for the Future

The case has larger implications for the relationship between the Centre and state governments regarding VIP security. It also highlights the challenges faced in balancing security resources across multiple protectees. For Rekha Gupta, the incident has brought her security arrangements under national spotlight. Her supporters continue to demand stronger measures, while officials insist that she is safe under Delhi Police protection. The outcome of the investigation into the attack will likely determine whether further changes in her security cover are required.