The twin blasts targeting a train in Chennai, the capital of India’s southern state Tamil Nadu, amid parliamentary elections in the country has triggered speculation about a possible terror plot, with the state government putting critical installations in Chennai on high alert.
A 22-year-old woman and 14 people were wounded when two bombs exploded in quick succession in two coaches of the Bangalore-Guwahati express train around 7.15 a.m., May 1. The blasts triggered panic at the bustling station and fuelled speculation about the motive and identity of the attackers.
India’s Prime Minister Manmohan Singh strongly condemned the “barbaric act” and said they “highlight the desperation and cowardice of those responsible”. “No efforts should be spared to bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.
The blasts came barely a couple of days after Mohammed Zakir Hussain, a Sri Lankan national, was arrested on charge of plotting to destroy vital installations in the state.
The Sri Lankan government promptly condemned the train blasts in India. “The people of Sri Lanka share the pain and anguish of the Indian people over this wanton act of violence targeting innocent civilians,” Sri Lanka’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
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The Government and the people of Sri Lanka offer their deep condolences to the Government and the people of India, particularly the bereaved family, and wish a speedy recovery for those who have been injured in this cowardly attack.”
A multi-agency probe has been ordered into the incident. Informed sources said that India’s Ministry of Home Affairs had asked the state police to submit a report on the blast.
Two helplines have been opened in Chennai to help the families of the passengers: 044 25357398 and 044 64502416; and one in Bangalore — 080 22876288.
Security has been intensified at all vital installations in Chennai and suburbs, including thermal power stations, the Madras Atomic Power Station, the US Consulate, railway stations, bus stations and temples.
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