Cabinet condemns blast near Red Fort, reaffirms India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of lives in a car blast near Delhi’s Red Fort and described it as a “heinous terrorist incident” carried out by anti-national forces.

At the meeting, the Cabinet observed two minutes of silence in memory of the victims who lost their lives in the blast that occurred in the high-security area around the Red Fort on the evening of November 10. The blast, which killed and injured several people, is being investigated as a terrorist act by central agencies.

The Cabinet proposal is the first formal government statement after the Red Fort blast, which led to increased security measures in Delhi and other major cities.

Security agencies have intensified checks at major establishments and public places amid intelligence alerts about possible attempts by extremist groups to target high-profile sites.

In a strongly worded resolution adopted during the meeting, the Cabinet “unequivocally condemned” the attack, terming it a “cowardly and dastardly act” aimed at disturbing peace and security in the national capital.

“The Cabinet pays its respects to the victims of this senseless act of violence and extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families,” a statement issued after the Cabinet meeting said.

The government prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and praised the prompt response of medical teams, police personnel and emergency services, who were among the first to arrive at the scene. His “dedication and sense of duty in the face of adversity” was appreciated.

Reiterating India’s “unwavering commitment to a policy of zero tolerance for terrorism”, the Cabinet vowed that such acts would strengthen the country’s resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms.

“The Cabinet reaffirms the Government’s determination to protect the life and welfare of all Indians, in line with its enduring commitment to national security and the safety of every citizen,” the resolution said.

The Cabinet also acknowledged the global solidarity extended to India following the attack and appreciated “the statements of support from many governments around the world”.

Officials said the Cabinet has directed all concerned agencies to conduct the investigation “with utmost promptness and professionalism” to ensure that the culprits, their associates and their sponsors are swiftly identified and brought to justice.

The situation is being closely monitored at the highest levels of the government, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) leading the investigation under the directions of the Union Home Ministry.

According to sources, the Prime Minister has been personally briefed about the progress of the investigation, which is probing possible links to the recently busted terror module in Delhi-NCR and Jammu and Kashmir regions.

As the investigation continues, the government’s message is clear – any attempt to disrupt India’s peace and security will be dealt with decisively, reaffirming its firm stand that terrorism will have no place within or outside India’s borders.