TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi on Sunday condemned the suicide bombing at the Pakistan-India border crossing at Wagah, calling the attack “shocking” and “a dastardly act of terrorism”.
“Terror attack in Pakistan near Wagah Border is shocking. I strongly condemn such a dastardly act of terrorism. My condolences to the families of the deceased. Prayers with the injured,” Modi tweeted as reported by India Express.
At least 60 people, including 11 women, children and three border officers were killed in the attack, and 200 others were wounded.
Around hundreds of people had gathered in Wagah for the flag-lowering ceremony and military personnel performance for the formal closing of border post. The ceremony has been held by both India and Pakistan for years. After the attack, the police have tightened security around Wagah.
Meanwhile, al Qaeda-linked Jundallah has claimed responsibility for the attack, but Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has also claimed responsbility for the attack. TTP spokesperson Ahmed Marwat said the attack was a reaction to military operation Zarb-i-Azb and Waziristan operation.
Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has conveyed the government’s commitment to fight terrorism in the country. He further said terrorists would not be able to destroy Pakistan.
RINDU P. HESTYA | INDIA EXPRESS