‘Delhi in shock,’ says CM Rekha Gupta; announces ₹10 lakh ex gratia for Red Fort car blast victims

Delhi was left reeling on Monday evening after a powerful explosion near the historic Red Fort claimed the lives of at least 13 people and injured several others. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as a moment of immense grief for the entire city. The cause of the blast remains under investigation, with authorities probing all possible angles, including sabotage and mechanical malfunction.

“This is an extremely painful moment for Delhi,” CM Rekha Gupta said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter). “In this hour of difficulty, the Government of Delhi extends its deepest condolences to all those families who have lost their loved ones and to those who have been injured in this incident.”

The chief minister also announced financial assistance to the victims’ families. The families of those who died in the blast will receive ₹10 lakh each, while individuals permanently disabled will be given ₹5 lakh. Those who sustained serious injuries will receive ₹2 lakh as immediate relief. Additionally, the Delhi government will bear the full cost of medical treatment for all injured persons.

“The Government of Delhi stands firmly with every affected family,” Rekha Gupta said. “We have taken a compassionate decision for immediate relief. Our administration will ensure proper and quality treatment for the injured.”

The explosion occurred in the busy old quarters of Delhi, close to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visuals from the site showed chaos and panic as emergency teams rushed to rescue the victims and control the fire. The police and forensic teams have cordoned off the area and are examining vehicle remains to determine the source and nature of the explosion.

As families performed the final rites of their loved ones, including 32-year-old Pankaj Sahni whose funeral pyre was lit on Tuesday, emotions ran high across the capital. The tragic event has sparked widespread concern about safety and security measures in high-footfall areas.

CM Rekha Gupta assured citizens that maintaining peace and security in Delhi remains the government’s top priority. “The administration is working with full vigilance and stands with all affected individuals and their families,” her post further read.

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The Delhi Police, National Investigation Agency (NIA), and forensic experts are jointly examining surveillance footage and collecting evidence to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the explosion. Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and report any suspicious activity to ensure collective vigilance in the wake of the tragedy.