Naveen Condemns Pulwama Terror Attack, 42 Jawans Martyred

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday condemned the Pulwama terror attack that claimed the lives of over 35 CRPF jawans and injured many more.

Describing it as a “cowardly act” Naveen joined several chief ministers and leaders across the political spectrum who expressed shock at the incident in Jammu and Kashmir.

The terrorists targeted the CRPF convoy with a car bomb at Awantipora in Pulwama district. Initial reports suggested that the vehicle used by the terrorists was a Mahindra Scorpio bearing more than 350 kg of explosives.

Thirteen of the injured were said to be in a critical condition, and have been moved to the army base hospital in Srinagar. Terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Its a “despicable” act, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted in his reaction, adding he spoke to Home Minister Rajnath Singh and top officials in wake of the attack. Rajnath has cancelled his rally scheduled in Patna tomorrow.

“Attack on CRPF personnel in Pulwama is despicable. I strongly condemn this dastardly attack. The sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain. The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of the brave martyrs. May the injured recover quickly,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi:
Terrible news coming from the valley. A number of CRPF soldiers are reported to have been killed & injured in an IED blast. I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms. My prayers for the injured & condolences to the families of the bereaved.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee:
We strongly condemn this cowardly attack, we extend condolences to the kin of the jawans who were martyred. This is the 18th big terror attack in the last 5 years under this Modi Govt. When will the 56-inch chest reply?