Security alert across India after Varanasi blast

NEW DELHI - The government Tuesday sounded a security alert across India asking states to be vigilant following a low-intensity blast in Varanasi that injured many worshippers in the Uttar Pradesh temple town.

Home Secretary G.K. Pillai said it was a low intensity blast in which roughly 20-25 people have been injured.

Asked about the nature of the explosion, Pillai told IANS that it was too early to say anything about that. Let the investigations take place.

He said: A general alert has been issued and all states have been told to be on high alert.

Special Secretary (Internal Security) U.K. Bansal told reporters that state police chief had informed him that seven to nine people were wounded and one or two among them may be foreigners.

He said it was not proper for him to conclude if it was a terror attack or an accidental blast.

He said the home ministry had asked all states to be extra vigilant and prevent any untoward incident from happening.

Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bangalore have also been asked to be on high alert, he said.