Three people were killed and 50 others were injured in a series of blasts that occurred at a convention centre in Kerala. The blasts took place during a prayer meeting organized by the Jehovah Christian denomination. A 48-year-old man from the same denomination claimed responsibility for the attacks and surrendered to the authorities.
The prayer meet was attended by approximately 2,000 individuals. Witnesses reported that the first blast occurred in the middle of the prayer, triggering panic among the attendees. Despite the group having an evacuation plan, the presence of smoke led to a stampede. Disturbing videos from inside the convention centre showed fires and chaos as people tried to escape.
The suspect, identified as Dominic Martin, surrendered after posting a video message on social media where he deemed the teachings of the organization as “seditious.” The National Investigation Agency (NIA), specializing in counter-terrorism operations, will be investigating the blasts. Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and ordered the NIA and NSG to send specialized teams to the scene.
The Kerala Police confirmed that Improvised Explosive Devices were used in the blasts, concealed in a tiffin box. Chief Minister Vijayan described the blasts as unfortunate and emphasized the seriousness of the situation. In an all-party meeting, leaders urged people to refrain from baseless accusations and rumors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and harmony amidst the tragedy.
