In a shocking and tragic incident that has sent shockwaves across the nation, a series of blasts occurred during a prayer meeting at a convention center in Kerala’s Kalamassery, resulting in the death of two women and injuring 45 people. The incident unfolded in the midst of a Jehovah’s Witnesses convention, which drew nearly 2,000 attendees. Within minutes of the prayer meeting’s commencement, at least three blasts rocked the convention center.
The first explosion, which claimed the lives of the two women, was reported to have taken place in the middle of a prayer session. Preliminary investigations have revealed that explosives were concealed within a tiffin box, causing devastation and chaos in the convention center.
The 48-year-old suspect, Dominic Martin, who surrendered hours after the blasts, has claimed affiliation with the same Christian denomination that organized the prayer meeting. This shocking turn of events has left authorities and the public grappling with questions and concerns regarding the motive behind this act of violence.
According to Kalamassery MP Hibi Eden, the first blast occurred at the center of the hall, triggering a well-prepared evacuation plan that went into action immediately. However, the presence of smoke led to a stampede, exacerbating the chaos.
The aftermath of the incident saw 45 injured individuals admitted to various hospitals in the district, with 18 of them in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and five others in critical condition. The state’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, termed the blasts “unfortunate” and emphasized that the situation is being treated with utmost seriousness. Senior police officials from across the state have been dispatched to the blast site to oversee the situation.
In response to the gravity of the situation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), known for its expertise in counter-terrorism operations, will lead the investigation into the blasts. The NIA’s forensic team has already arrived at the scene to gather crucial evidence.
Disturbing visuals from inside the convention center depict a scene of chaos and panic, with fire rescue and police personnel working tirelessly to evacuate attendees. Multiple fires raged inside the hall as people, including children, were heard screaming in fear. Some courageous individuals attempted to control the fires, but the hall was strewn with scattered and damaged chairs.
The repercussions of the blasts have not been confined to Kerala alone. Security measures have been significantly heightened in the national capital and Mumbai in response to the serial blasts, reflecting the widespread concern and alarm generated by this horrifying incident.
Kerala’s Health Minister, Veena George, has issued a directive for all healthcare workers to report for duty to respond to the medical needs arising from the blast. As the investigation unfolds, questions about the motive behind these blasts, the full extent of the damage, and the impact on the community are likely to come to the forefront, demanding answers and accountability.
Sources By Agencies
