Centre declares Delhi Red Fort blast a 'terrorist incident'

New Delhi: The Union Cabinet on Wednesday unequivocally condemned the “heinous terror incident perpetrated by anti-national forces” near the Red Fort and directed the agencies to pursue the investigation with “utmost urgency and professionalism” so that the “perpetrators, their collaborators, and their sponsors” are identified and brought to justice without delay.

Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who earlier in the day visited Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital to meet those injured in the car blast that took place on Monday evening, the Cabinet meeting expressed its “profound grief” over the loss of lives and observed two minutes’ silence. Later, Modi also chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).

The Cabinet passed a resolution saying it was paying its solemn respects to the victims of this “senseless act of violence” and conveys its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Thirteen people were killed in the incident that took place near the Mughal era monument when a blast took place in a car driven by a doctor, allegedly part of a terror module.

“The country has witnessed a heinous terror incident, perpetrated by anti-national forces, through a car explosion near the Red Fort. The explosion resulted in multiple fatalities, and caused injuries to several others. The Cabinet prays for the speedy recovery of all those injured, and appreciates the prompt efforts of the medical personnel and emergency responders, who have been providing care and support to the victims,” it said.

Calling it a “dastardly and cowardly act”, the Cabinet also reiterated India’s “unwavering commitment” to a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It directed that the investigation into the incident be pursued with the utmost urgency and professionalism so that the perpetrators, their collaborators, and their sponsors are identified and brought to justice without delay.

“The situation continues to be closely monitored at the highest levels of the government,” the resolution said adding, 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."

It said it appreciated the statements of solidarity and support from many governments around the world as well as the timely and coordinated response of the authorities, security agencies, and citizens who acted with courage and compassion in the face of adversity. Their dedication and sense of duty are deeply commendable, it said.

At a press conference to brief about decisions taken at the Cabinet meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwani Vaishnaw was asked whether the senior ministers discussed about Pakistan’s possible involvement. A question also referred to a statement after Pahalgam attack that any terror strike will be considered as an "act of war".

To these questions, he answered, "The resolution clearly describes the incident as a heinous terror incident...I request you to clearly read the resolution.”

To a question on the use of the word “anti-national” in the resolution and whether it meant that the authorities do not consider it as a terror act from across the border, the minister quipped, “That is your interpretation.”