Prez, PM condemn France attack; no Indian affected

President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi have strongly condemned the terror attack in France, saying the pre-meditated massacre of innocent people, including children, was an unspeakable crime. However, no Indian is reported to have been affected in the attacks, the Extrenal Affairs Ministry said. 

In a letter to French President Francois Hollande, Mukherjee conveyed condolences over the loss of lives in the heinous act of terror in Nice on Thursday evening and said that India stood beside the people of France in this hour of grief.

Modi said the “mindless act of violence” was appalling and India shares the pain and stands firmly with France in this hour of “immense sadness”.

“Appalled by the horrific attack in Nice. I strongly condemn such mindless acts of violence. My thoughts are with the families of deceased,” he tweeted.

“I hope the injured recover soon. India shares the pain & stands firmly with our French sisters & brothers in this hour of immense sadness,” he added.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi said the terrorist attack on a crowd celebrating Bastille Day in Nice “reflects deep resentment to peace and democratic values”.

The President, who is in Darjeeling on an official visit, said, “I am deeply pained to learn that France is once again afflicted by a major tragedy caused by a heinous act of terror last evening.”

He added: “The pre-meditated massacre of innocent people as they were participating in Bastille Day celebrations – including, sadly, many children, is an unspeakable crime.’ 

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj tweeted: “I have spoken to our Ambassador in France Shri Mohan Kumar. He has again confirmed that all Indians are safe.” The Indian embassy in Paris had opened a helpline 33-1-40507070.

Earlier, MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup said: “Our Ambassador in Paris is in touch with the Indian community in Nice. So far, no report of any Indians affected.” 

The attack comes eight months after Islamic State terrorists attacked Paris nightspots, killing 130 people and dealing a hard blow to tourism in one of the world’s top destinations.