Ban condemns multiple terrorist attacks in north-east India

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned the terrorist attacks that struck the north-eastern Indian state of Assam today, reportedly killing at least 60 people and wounding several hundred more, and occurring on the same day that the United Nations chief was on an official visit to the country.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban expressed his deep sorrow and sympathy to the Government and people of India for the loss of life and destruction caused by the attacks.

“He strongly condemns this act of terrorism targeting civilians,” the statement said, adding that “there can be absolutely no justification for such indiscriminate violence.”

According to media reports, at least nine blasts rocked four towns in Assam, including three in the state capital, Guwahati.

Today’s bombings are the latest in a series of attacks in cities across the vast South Asian nation in recent months, including in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Jaipur and Delhi.

The Secretary-General’s day-long visit to New Delhi followed a stop in the Philippines yesterday and is part of a four-nation Asia tour that will also take him to Nepal and Bangladesh.