The Union Cabinet on Wednesday termed the Delhi blast a “terrorist incident” and directed that the investigation into the explosion incident near Red Fort in the Chandni Chowk area on Monday evening be pursued with utmost urgency. This is the first time the Government has accepted the blast on Monday in Delhi an act of terror. 13 lives were lost in the blast.
Sources said that the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which was held during the day, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attended by Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval reviewed the situation.
Before both the meetings, held separately, PM Modi also visited the LNJP Hospital on Wednesday and met the survivors of the blast, saying the perpetrators will be brought to justice. PM went straight to the hospital from the airport upon returning from Bhutan.
“Went to LNJP Hospital and met those injured during the blast in Delhi. Praying for everyone’s quick recovery. Those behind the conspiracy will be brought to justice!” the PM posted on social media. He was also briefed by officials and doctors at the hospital, officials said. Earlier on Monday, Home Minister Amit Shah visited the hospital to meet the survivors.
The Cabinet reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. “The Cabinet reaffirms the Government’s steadfast resolve to safeguard the lives and well-being of all Indians, consistent with its enduring commitment to national security and the safety of every citizen,” the Union Cabinet stated in a resolution. The Cabinet also observed two minutes’ silence in honour of innocent lives lost.
The issue of the blast near Red Fort was also raised in a meeting of a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs on Wednesday, but the Chairperson of the panel refused to discuss the matter, a source said.
