Kin of Red Fort blast victims, injured persons, demand higher compensation in letter to govts

New Delhi: An NGO has written to the Centre and Delhi govt on behalf of victims of the bomb blast near Red Fort in Nov last year and their families, seeking enhanced compensation, citing inadequate relief for both the deceased and the injured.

The representation follows an order of the Delhi High Court dated April 29, which asked the NGO to “make a representation for redressal of the grievances” to both govts after it approached the court highlighting several cases.

Among those cited is Pankaj Ram Sahni, a sole breadwinner who lost his life in the blast. His damaged vehicle, which was his source of livelihood, was seized and later, according to the letter, “they were not permitted to sell, drive or carry out any maintenance on it”. The family received Rs 10 lakh as compensation.

Another victim, Jumman, also a sole breadwinner, left behind a physically disabled wife, two daughters and a son. Amar Kataria, who also died in the blast, is survived by his wife and 3-year-old son. These cases were also cited in the representation.

The NGO highlighted the situation of several injured victims as well. Shaina Parveen, who suffered damage to her eardrum in the blast, received Rs 20,000 as compensation, with her injury categorised as “simple”. Similarly, Reeta, who resigned from her job after sustaining eye and leg injuries, received the same amount, with her injuries deemed “minor”.

Ankush, who lost his left eye and suffered jaw injuries, was granted Rs 2 lakh, though his medical expenses reportedly amounted to at least Rs 5 lakh. The cases of three other injured victims — Yasin, Jaiveer and Bhawani Shankar Sharma — were also mentioned.

Ashok Randhawa, president of the South Asian Forum for People Against Terror, said the compensation awarded so far did not reflect the severity of loss suffered by the victims and their families.

“We demand that the families of the deceased receive at least Rs 20 lakh instead of Rs 10 lakh each and the injured who have received Rs 2 lakh receive at least Rs 4 lakh each,” Randhawa said, adding that an exception should be made for Ankush, who should receive at least Rs 6 lakh.

“Those who have received Rs 20,000 should receive at least Rs 2 lakh. Those who have lost their vehicles and are unable to claim insurance should also be given appropriate compensation,” he said, adding, “The family members who are qualified should also be given govt jobs.”