As per her complaint, R Sudha— currently residing at Tamil Nadu House — was accompanied by fellow Rajya Sabha MP Ms. Rajathi when the incident happened around 6:15 am between Gates 3 and 4 of the Polish Embassy. A man wearing a full-face helmet, riding a Scooty, approached from the opposite direction and suddenly snatched her gold chain before fleeing.
“I didn’t find him suspicious as he was riding slowly, but he yanked my chain abruptly, injuring my neck and tearing my churidar. I almost lost balance,” R Sudha wrote in her letter to the police and the Union Home Ministry.
The MPs quickly alerted a passing Delhi Police patrol vehicle and were directed to file a report at the local station. A case has been registered, and senior officers confirmed that multiple teams are investigating. CCTV footage is being reviewed, and security has been intensified around Tamil Nadu Bhavan and adjacent embassies.
Despite Chanakyapuri’s reputation as one of Delhi’s safest zones—housing numerous embassies and state guest houses—the incident highlights rising street crime even in protected areas. Chain and mobile snatching cases are reportedly increasing, with many citizens hesitant to report them due to distrust in police response.
Critics blame the situation on severe police understaffing and allege that a large number of officers are diverted to VIP duties instead of community policing. A former police officer, speaking anonymously, cited political interference as a factor weakening basic law enforcement.
Many local women admit they avoid wearing jewellery during walks for safety. “If you want peace, leave your chain at home,” joked one Delhi resident.
With a sitting MP now among the victims, the incident is expected to intensify pressure on the central government and Delhi Police to reevaluate their public safety and resource allocation strategies.