Leading Congressmen and Senators condemn train blasts in Mumbai

Washington, July 12 (UNI) Several leading Congressmen and Senators here condemned the deadly train blasts in Mumbai and pledged full support and solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism.

Chief Deputy Whip of the Democratic party and member of the International Relations Committee Joseph Crowley condemned the serial blasts in Mumbai.

In a statement, Mr Crowley, who is also former Democratic chair of the Caucus on India and Indian Americans said, ''Today, we have seen the gruesome images from Mumbai after a coordinated terrorist attack targeted commuter trains during the busiest time of day as thousands of ordinary people made their way home in India's busiest city.

''This horrific terrorist attack resulting in the tragic loss of so many innocent lives reminds us again that the deadly threat the civilised world faces from those who only know how to hate, and our effort to apprehend the perpetrators requires vigilance to avoid tragedy.

''The terrorists are attacking the underpinnings of the Indian economy, the economic engine and diverse ideals of Mumbai. India, like the United States, has long struggled with terrorism and attacks of extremist groups and individuals.'' ''I send my deepest sympathies to our Indian friends, and, as a member of Congress, I promise to see to it that India receives the necessary support from the United States to cope with this tragic incident and apprehend the perpetrators responsible for this brutal terrorist act.'' Rep Frank Pallone, founder and former co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans said, ''I am extremely saddened by the injuries and loss of life caused by the bombings in the western suburbs of Mumbai, India. My heart goes out to all the victims of this disaster and their families. The thoughts of all Americans are with you during this agonising time.'' ''These attacks were a senseless act of terrorism and violence.

I am confident that Indian officials will find the person or organization responsible for this disaster and bring them to swift justice. We must work together as a world community to stop terrorist organizations wherever they exist to prevent a murderous event like this from happening again.'' ''However, nothing will ever replace the lives that were lost nor alleviate the suffering this bombing has caused for so many. The world mourns this tragedy along with the victims, their families and all Indians.'' Congressman Joe Wilson, Past Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, strongly condemning the series of terror attacks at train stations in Mumbai said, ''While terrorists claim to pursue a lofty purpose, their cowardly attacks against civilians demonstrate that they are monsters motivated by evil and the destruction of life. By targeting innocent travelers in India, these mass murderers have reminded the world of their inhumanity and the importance of defeating terrorism throughout the globe.'' ''Today, our hearts and prayers are with the Indian people. Just as they stood with us on September 11th, we are standing with them on July 11th and each day forward as our two nations continue to fight terrorism and protect our freedoms.'' UNI XC PR VA VP1025