CM Rekha Gupta hands over ₹1 crore each to families of Covid warriors

‘Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,’ says CM after meeting bereaved families

Flags delay under previous government, assures faster aid going forward

New Delhi, April 2026 : Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta on Wednesday handed over cheques of ₹1 crore each as financial assistance to the families of six government employees who lost their lives while on duty during the COVID-19 pandemic. The cheques were distributed at a programme held at the Delhi Secretariat. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the gesture was not merely a government formality, but a heartfelt expression of gratitude, empathy and respect. “At a time when the world was gripped by fear and uncertainty, these brave individuals put duty above everything else and continued to serve people without worrying about their own lives,” she said.

Interacting with the families, Gupta listened to their concerns and experiences with sensitivity. She said their sacrifice could never be forgotten and described them as heroes not just for their families, but for society as a whole. She assured them that the Delhi government would continue to stand by them like an extended family and offer all possible support.

The Chief Minister also took note of the hardships faced by these families in the past, particularly delays during the previous government’s tenure. Many had to wait for long periods due to procedural delays and late disbursal of compensation. She assured them that such cases are now being treated as a top priority, and steps are being taken to ensure that no eligible family has to face unnecessary delays in receiving assistance. Her words brought visible relief and reassurance to those present.

The six beneficiaries were associated with various government bodies, including the MCD, DTC, Delhi Jal Board, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, NDMC and Maulana Azad Medical College. Paramedical staff risked their lives working in hospitals and testing centres, while personnel from other departments ensured uninterrupted delivery of essential services such as water supply, sanitation and transport during the lockdown.

Expressing regret over the delay in disbursing assistance, the Chief Minister said no amount of compensation could make up for the loss suffered by the families. She described the financial aid as a support mechanism to help ease their day-to-day struggles. Recalling the difficult days of the pandemic, she said many people fulfilled their duties with extraordinary courage and dedication. She paid tribute to those who lost their lives and extended her condolences to their families, praying for strength to help them cope with their loss.

In addition, the family of late ASI Radhey Shyam from the Delhi Police traffic unit was also given ₹1 crore. He lost his life in the line of duty. The Chief Minister also extended financial assistance to the family of a deceased child in Dwarka, reiterating that the government stands firmly with every affected family and will provide all necessary support.

₹1 crore aid for ‘Apna Ghar Ashram’

Strengthening social welfare efforts, the Chief Minister also handed over a cheque of ₹1 crore to ‘Apna Ghar Ashram’ in Budhpur under the CSR initiative of the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC). The funds will be used for the organisation’s operational expenses.

Praising the work of such institutions, Gupta said organisations like Apna Ghar Ashram set an example by providing shelter, food, medical care and dignity to the destitute and vulnerable. She also urged capable members of society to contribute to such initiatives, adding that service is not just a duty but a commitment and a shared responsibility. The Delhi government, she said, remains committed to ensuring transparent and compassionate delivery of assistance to every section of society. Cabinet Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa and other dignitaries were also present at the event.