In a major development in the investigation into the knife attack on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the Delhi Police have arrested Tahseen Syed, an associate of the primary accused, Rajesh Bhai Khimji Bhai Sakariya. Tahseen was nabbed in Rajkot, Gujarat, and brought to Delhi late Friday night. He has been booked on charges of criminal conspiracy and aiding an attempted murder, according to police officials.

Investigators revealed that Tahseen played a crucial role in supporting Rajesh’s alleged plan to assassinate the Chief Minister. Call records and financial transactions show that Tahseen remained in constant contact with Rajesh in the days leading up to the attack. He even transferred ₹2,000 to Rajesh’s account, which authorities believe was intended to assist in executing the assault.

The attack occurred on August 20 during Chief Minister Gupta’s weekly Jan Sunwai session at her Civil Lines residence. Initial investigations suggest that Rajesh, an auto-rickshaw driver from Rajkot with a history of criminal cases, initially planned to attack the CM at the Supreme Court premises but backed out due to heavy security. He later targeted her residence in Shalimar Bagh.

Rajesh allegedly planned to use a knife for the attack but discarded the weapon near Civil Lines after noticing heightened security before entering the premises. Police teams are currently searching for the missing weapon, which is considered critical evidence.

Tahseen’s arrest marks a significant breakthrough in what police describe as a “premeditated and coordinated conspiracy.” Officials are now probing deeper to uncover the full extent of the plot, examining digital communications, call records, and financial links. Authorities have also indicated that more individuals in Delhi and Rajkot may be connected to the conspiracy.

Both Rajesh and Tahseen will be presented in court on Monday, where investigators are expected to seek extended custody to recover the weapon and identify others involved.

The incident has reignited concerns over the security of public officials during open-access programs such as Jan Sunwai. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who escaped serious harm, assured citizens that such acts of violence would not deter her resolve. “Such attacks will never shake my commitment. I remain dedicated to serving the people of Delhi with courage and transparency,” she said.