Blasts triggered to malign state govt: K'taka CM

Bangalore, Jul 25 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa today described the serial bomb blasts in the city as a ''pre-planned conspiracy'' to malign his government.

Talking to reporters after chairing an emergency Cabinet Meeting following the blasts at seven places in the city, killing one woman and injuring seven, he said, ''This looks like a plot against my government. It is a cowardly act by destructive forces which want to disrupt peace and harmony in the city. This should be condemned strongly,'' he added.

The Chief Minister said a special police team would immediately launch a probe into the blasts and the state sought the Centre's assistance for strengthening security and maintaining law and order in the state.

He said he had already apprised the Centre of the incidents that occurred at Madiwala, Nayandahalli, Adugodi, Koramangala, Richmond Circle, Anepalya and Mallya Hospital in the city.

''My government will not tolerate such acts of anti-national elements for tarnishing the image of the city.'' The police were asked to take strict security measures.

The Chief Minister sought the cooperation of the people of the state to maintain peace in the hours of crisis. He also appealed to them not to panic.

He announced a solatium of Rs one lakh to the kin of the blast victim and Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 to the injured.

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