Addressing a recent incident of racial harassment in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta issued a strong statement today, Wednesday, February 25, 2026, asserting that discrimination against citizens from the Northeast will not be tolerated.
The case, which went viral via a social media video, involved three young women from Arunachal Pradesh who were subjected to derogatory racial slurs and criminal intimidation by a couple in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar.
CM Rekha Gupta’s Official Response
In a video message shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Chief Minister emphasized the inclusive nature of the capital:
“Delhi belongs to everyone. Here, the dignity, respect, and safety of every citizen is paramount. Harassing, discriminating against, or humiliating any daughter will not be tolerated at any cost. We are all one, and the safety of every daughter is our utmost responsibility.”
The CM further confirmed that she would be meeting the survivors personally to ensure they receive the necessary support and justice.
The Incident & Police Action
The confrontation reportedly began on February 20, 2026, during minor electrical work at the women’s fourth-floor rented accommodation.
- The Dispute: Dust from drilling work for an AC installation allegedly fell to the floor below, triggering a verbal altercation with neighbors.
- The Abuse: The neighbor couple allegedly used racial slurs like “momo,” questioned the women’s character with derogatory “spa worker” insinuations, and threatened them.
- The Arrest: Delhi Police confirmed on Wednesday that the accused couple, Ruby Jain (35) and her husband Harsh Singh, have been arrested.
Charges Invoked
Given the nature of the remarks, the police have applied stringent sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the SC/ST Act:
- Section 79 (BNS): Words/gestures intended to insult the modesty of a woman.
- Section 196 (BNS): Promoting enmity on grounds of race, residence, or language (non-bailable).
- SC/ST Act: Invoked based on the identity of the victims, shifting the investigation to an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) rank officer.
Widespread Condemnation
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from leaders across the political spectrum:
- Pema Khandu (Arunachal CM): Termed the incident “shameful” and confirmed he is in direct contact with the Delhi Police Commissioner.
- Jyotiraditya Scindia (Union Minister): Expressed he was “deeply disturbed” and sought swift justice for the “brothers and sisters from the Northeast.”
- Sagarika Ghose (TMC MP): Urged CM Rekha Gupta to focus on immediate safety measures for Northeast residents in Delhi.