We stand united, and we will not allow any force to weaken the spirit, resilience, or vibrancy of this historic area: Praveen Khandelwal
Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal (Photo: File)
NEW DELHI: In an extensive interview with The Sunday Guard ian, Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal said that after the shocking and deeply disturbing blast in his constituency, he wanted to reassure ev eryone that the situation is fully under control and there is no reason for fear or panic and that he has urged people to continue visiting the market and that we will not allow any force to weaken the spirit, resilience, or vibrancy of this historic area.
Q. How do you view the blast that took place in your constitu ency on Monday?
A. The blast that occurred in my constituency on Monday is deeply disturb ing, completely unaccept able, and a matter of serious concern. Such incidents are not only an attack on public safety but also an attempt to disrupt peace, harmony, and the everyday life of ordinary citizens, and I strongly condemn this act. My top priority is the safety and security of the people of Chandni Chowk. From the very first moment, I have been closely monitoring the situation and have spoken to all concerned authorities to ensure that the investiga tion proceeds swiftly and thoroughly. No culprit will be spared, and the strictest action must be taken. I also want to reassure residents that law enforcement agen cies are fully alert, robust se curity arrangements are in place, and there is no need for panic. We stand united, and we will not allow any force to weaken the spirit, resilience, or vibrancy of this historic area.
Q. What concrete steps have you taken with the administration to ensure the security of the Red Fort area, which is a key commercial zone?
A. I have been in con stant touch with the inves tigating agencies and senior officials to strengthen secu rity in the Red Fort area. Im mediately after the incident, I raised the matter with Delhi Police, the Special Cell, and other concerned authorities to ensure that all security measures are thoroughly reviewed and upgraded. I have specifically requested enhanced deploy ment of security personnel across the market, increased CCTV coverage with con tinuous monitoring of vulnerable points, intensi fied patrolling during peak hours, better coordination between local police, traffic police, and market associa tions for swift response, and the installation of additional access-control points to reg ulate movement and deter any suspicious activity. The agencies have assured me that a detailed security audit is already in progress and several measures are being implemented on priority. I want to reassure traders, shopkeepers, and the public that their safety remains my highest concern, and I will continue to follow up with authorities until a fully se cure and well-monitored environment is ensured.
Q. Since the blast, footfall around the Red Fort area has noticeably declined. What mes sage or advice would you like to convey to the public?
A. I want to reassure ev eryone that the situation is fully under control and there is no reason for fear or hesitation. Security agencies and the local administra tion have taken swift and comprehensive measures to safeguard every visitor, trader, and resident, includ ing enhanced patrolling, strengthened surveillance, and strict monitoring across the vicinity. I urge the public to continue visiting the mar ket as usual—your presence is the greatest support to the traders and shopkeepers whose livelihoods rely on daily business. Do not let fear overshadow your con fidence; this area remains completely safe, secure, and fully functional. The Red Fort and its surround ing markets are a symbol of Delhi’s identity and pride, and with collective trust and patience, normal activ ity will return even faster. I assure all visitors that Delhi stands strong, and the Red Fort area is ready to wel come everyone with safety, warmth, and confidence.
Q. As a businessman you be long to this locality, what assur ances are you offering to traders and shopkeepers affected by the incident?
A. As a businessman and resident of this area, I want to assure all traders and shopkeepers affected by the Red Fort blast that you are not alone. Your safety and the revival of normal business activity are my top priorities. I have urged au thorities to strengthen secu rity, assess damages quickly, support affected traders, enhance CCTV and patrol ling, and implement clear emergency protocols. I’ve also requested better crowd and traffic management to ensure smooth operations. I stand with every trader, and together we will restore nor malcy, rebuild confidence, and ensure that our market remains safe and vibrant. Our resolve is stronger than this crisis, and the market will emerge even stronger.
