CM visits hospital; Kejriwal flags ‘negligence’ in security arrangements

New Delhi Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Education Minister Ashish Sood visited the Lok Nayak Hospital on Monday night to meet those injured in the blast, as well as the doctors, to assess the situation.

“The incident of the car explosion near the Red Fort is extremely distressing and alarming. I express my deepest condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in this tragic accident. I pray to God that the injured recover swiftly. Every possible assistance is being ensured for the affected people. Teams from the Delhi Police, NSG, NIA, and FSL are working together to conduct a thorough investigation into the entire matter,” Ms. Gupta said on X before visiting the premier medical facility.

‘Beware of rumours’

“I appeal to all Delhi residents to beware of rumours and maintain peace. Please rely only on official information issued by the police and administration,” she said.

Earlier in the day, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged negligence in security arrangements.

“The news of the explosion near the Red Fort is extremely alarming. It is reported that some people have also lost their lives in it, which is extremely tragic. The police and government should immediately investigate how this explosion occurred and whether there is any larger conspiracy behind it. Negligence regarding Delhi’s security cannot be tolerated,” Mr. Kejriwal said in a post on X.

‘Attack on our pride’

AAP national spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Singh blamed Pakistan for the blast.

“Only Pakistan could carry out such a despicable act. By announcing a ceasefire, Modiji has emboldened the Pakistani terrorists. Those who have taken innocent lives must be eliminated. The attack near the Red Fort is an attack on the symbol of our pride. The nation is not safe in [Narendra] Modi’s hands. May God grant peace to the souls of those who lost their lives,” he said in a post on X.

Condemning the blast, senior AAP leader and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said in a post on X, “The news of the explosion in Delhi is extremely concerning. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and for the safety of all citizens in Delhi and across the country. In such times, maintaining peace and restraint is our greatest strength – terror and fear can only be defeated through our unity.”