Chennai blasts: PM says it reflects desperation and cowardice

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today condemned the Chennai blasts, saying such "barbaric acts" highlight the "desperation and cowardice" of those responsible and asserted that no efforts would be spared in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Offering condolence to the kin of the deceased and sympathy for those injured, he appealed for peace and expressed confidence that the people of the country will stand united against these attempts to disturb peace and harmony.

Singh said, "Such barbaric acts targeting innocent men, women and children only highlight the desperation and cowardice of those responsible," according to a statement released by the Prime Minister's Office.

"The Prime Minister has offered his sincere condolences to the family of the deceased and heartfelt sympathies to those injured", it said.

He said, "No efforts should be spared to bring the perpetrators to justice. The Centre, he said, will provide the state government all assistance towards this.

Two minor-intensity bombs rocked the Guwahati-Bangalore Express at the Chennai Central Railway station early this morning claiming a woman's life and leaving 13 others injured.