by Our Correspondent in New Delhi
The Union Cabinet on Wednesday strongly condemned the terrorist explosion near Delhi’s historic Red Fort, calling it a “dastardly and cowardly act” that claimed at least eight lives and injured several others.
Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Cabinet expressed profound grief over the loss of lives in the car blast that occurred on Monday evening, and observed a two-minute silence in memory of the victims.
In a unanimously adopted resolution, the Cabinet reaffirmed India’s policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism and directed authorities to pursue the investigation with “the utmost urgency and professionalism” to ensure that the perpetrators, their collaborators, and sponsors are brought to justice without delay.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who briefed the media after the Cabinet meeting, confirmed that the blast was being treated as a terrorist incident and that the situation continues to be monitored “at the highest levels of government.”
The resolution described the attack as a “heinous terror incident perpetrated by anti-national forces”, noting that the explosion in a moving car at a traffic signal near the Red Fort on November 10 resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries to several others.
“The Cabinet pays its solemn respects to the victims of this senseless act of violence and conveys its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. It prays for the speedy recovery of all those injured and appreciates the prompt efforts of medical personnel and emergency responders,” the statement said.
The Cabinet also recorded its appreciation for messages of solidarity and support received from several governments around the world, as well as the timely and coordinated response of security agencies and citizens who assisted in rescue efforts.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the probe into the blast and is examining all possible angles, including the type of explosives used and potential links to terror outfits.
