AP govt announces compensation for blast victims

NEW DELHI: The Andhra Pradesh government announced a compensation of Rs five lakh for the next of kin of those killed in the blast at a mosque in Hyderabad.

The compensation was announced by Chief Minister Y S Rajashekhar Reddy.

He said those injured in the blast will be given a compensation of Rs 20,000 each.

Reddy said there were three bombs in all, two of which were later defused.

If these two bombs had also exploded, the situation would have been worse, Reddy told reporters.

Pieces of gunny bag were found at the site, the Chief Minister said when asked about any evidence had been found so far. 

The Chief Minister said over the last two-and-a-half months, the government had received intelligence inputs that some elements were trying to disturb peace in the state and all needful steps were taken to avert such an incident.

Asked whether it was a terror attack or "internal sabotage", he said, "I don't know... It is still being investigated."

Reddy said the DGP, the Home Minister, the Minister in charge of the district and all senior police officials were on the spot and were actively involved in controlling the situation.

He said Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil had talked to him and assured him of the Centre's support in controlling the situation.

Asked if the blast was a result of police failure, Reddy said, "No. I don't think so. Police is very vigilant...Inspite of all this, at times things like this do happen".