Two months have passed since an explosion near Delhi's historic Red Fort left over 30 people injured, but for many survivors, the promised government aid remains elusive. A group of ten victims has come forward, detailing their ongoing struggles with severe injuries, mounting medical expenses, and a loss of livelihood, all compounded by the delay in receiving compensation.
Lives Shattered, Promises Unfulfilled
Among those waiting is 28-year-old Ankush Sharma, a craftsman of gold and silver. The blast cost him an eye and caused multiple injuries to his ear, head, and legs. He continues to undergo extensive treatment at AIIMS for neurological issues, plastic surgery, and eye procedures. His family describes an exhausting battle with long waits for appointments, limited clinic hours, and difficulty accessing specialists.
"He is undergoing multiple treatments. We have not received any compensation so far," said his elder brother, Ankit Sharma, 32. The family is now considering moving Ankush to a private hospital, a decision that would drastically increase their financial burden.
Another survivor, 23-year-old Shaina Parveen, was forced to resign from her job as an accountant. She suffered severe damage to her right eardrum and injuries to the left side of her face. The aftermath of the blast brought further personal tragedy.
"Her marriage broke off after the incident, and we lost around Rs 3 lakh. On top of that, medical expenses are mounting," said her father, Mohammad Saifullah, 50. He added that despite assurances from authorities not to worry, the family is still waiting for support.
Lost Livelihoods and Unsettled Claims
The explosion's impact extended beyond physical injuries, destroying crucial assets for many. Ashok Randhawa, a social worker assisting the victims, revealed that several injured people lost their vehicles in the blast, including four taxis, e-rickshaws, and motorcycles.
"For many, these vehicles were their only source of livelihood. They are still not released, and insurance companies are not settling the claims," Randhawa stated. He emphasized that the issue of compensation for the injured has been raised repeatedly with the Delhi government but remains unresolved.
A Call for Urgent Action
The stories of Ankush, Shaina, and others highlight a gap between official promises and ground reality. As survivors navigate complex medical treatments and financial ruin, the delay in compensation adds immense stress to their recovery. Their plight underscores the need for a swift and efficient mechanism to deliver aid in the wake of such public tragedies, ensuring that victims are not left to fend for themselves in their most vulnerable moments.
