I strongly condemn the serial bomb blasts at different places in Ahmedabad today. Coming just a day after serial bomb explosions in Bangalore, these are a pointer to a sinister terrorist offensive against the Nation.

I convey my condolences to the families of those killed in the bomb blasts. I also convey my sympathies and assurance of assistance to the injured.

I spoke to Shri Narendra Modi, Chief Minister of Gujarat, and inquired about the situation.

The latest terrorist act has once again highlighted the need for a firm and effective anti-terrorist legal framework. The Legislative Assembly of Gujarat has passed a law on the lines of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). It is pending with the President for assent for the past four years. A similar legislation in respect of Rajasthan is also awaiting the President’s assent. I demand that the Union Government immediately recommend Presidential assent to these two legislations, whose need has been further underscored by the repeal of POTA.