Samastipur: The residents of Hasanpur village in Bihar’s Samastipur district mourned silently on Tuesday upon learning that 22-year-old Pankaj Sahni, a taxi driver in Delhi, was among the casualties of the bomb blast near the Red Fort on November 10. Pankaj, son of Ram Balak Sahni, had lived in Delhi with his family for nearly twenty years, driving a cab like his father to help support them. On Monday evening, while transporting passengers near the Red Fort, he became a victim of the devastating explosion that resulted in multiple fatalities. Family members revealed that Pankaj’s relatives in Hasanpur were informed of his death the next morning.
His aunt, Ruby Devi, expressed her sorrow, saying, “I won’t even be able to see my nephew for the last time. His funeral will be held in Delhi.” Pankaj’s cousin, Deepansh, a college student, voiced his concerns and anger regarding the incident, stating, “If there were employment opportunities in Bihar, our youth wouldn’t have to leave home to earn a living. Pankaj went out to work and never returned. This is a matter of national security, and the government must act seriously.” Villagers remembered that Pankaj last visited Hasanpur three years ago for his elder brother’s wedding. “He was simple, respectful, and remained connected to the village despite growing up in Delhi,” noted his cousin Baleshwar Sahni.
“He promised to return soon, but destiny had different plans.” Local youths like Shivshankar Sahni expressed frustration towards the government for the lack of job opportunities in Bihar. “If there were work here in the village or district, we wouldn’t have to migrate. Our people go to Delhi, Gujarat, or Kerala for livelihoods and face such tragedies,” he remarked, suggesting the blast could be linked to cross-border terrorism or political motives. Hasanpur Panchayat head Sanjeev Kumar Chaudhary condemned the attack, demanding severe punishment for those responsible. “Pankaj had just started his life. The terrorists should face the harshest punishment. I appeal to the Prime Minister and Home Minister to ensure that justice is served,” he stated.
Since the news broke, the village, located about 30 kilometers from Samastipur headquarters, has seen many visitors. Residents note that this is not the first time Bihar’s migrant workers have been victims of violence outside the state. Many now hope Pankaj’s death will prompt both state and central governments to tackle unemployment and enhance safety for those who migrate for work.