Multiple explosions at a convention centre in Kalamassery of Ernakulam in Kerala killed one woman and injured more than 30 others on the morning of Sunday, October 29. At the time of the blasts, a prayer meeting of the Jehovah's Witnesses was going on in the centre, attended by thousands of people. Here is what we know so far:
Two women died of burn injuries. One woman was reported dead soon after the blast. By evening another woman called Kumari, a 53 year old native of Thodupuzha, also succumbed to her injuries.
By evening, a Kochi native called Dominic Martin approached the police, claiming responsibility for the explosions. He also posted a video saying that he was part of Jehovah's Witnesses for many years but was disillusioned by their partisan, anti-national teachings.
A woman died of burn injuries and more than 30 others were injured, several of them undergoing treatment at the Kalamassery Medical College.
Health Minister Veena George said that 52 people sought treatment and 18 of them are in Intensive Care Unit. Six people are in critical condition. A control room has been setup by the Health Deparment and helpline numbers released: 0484-2360802, 7907642736
In the Medical College, 10 people are in the Intensive Care Unit and 10 others in the ward. Two are in ventillator support, including a 12 year old child. A few people are also being treated at private hospitals like Rajagiri, Sunrise and Aster Medicity.
Minister VN Vasavan said earlier that two people injured in the blast -- a child and her mother -- have suffered more than 70% burns. The child is in ventillator support. Both are in Aster MIMS burn ward.
Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb has confirmed that the device used for the blasts were Improvised Explosive Devices (IED).
The first explosion happened 10 minutes after the prayer started. People began running out of the venue in panic. Soon, two more explosions took place.
Ernakulam District Collector Umesh NSK said that eyewitnesses reported hearing three explosions, one after another. Investigations are underway.
The place has since been sealed off. Bomb squad and forensics team will inspect the place.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that what happened was unfortunate and that all top police officials in Ernakulam have reached the spot. The Director General of Police (DGP) and other officials are on their way. More details are awaited, he said.
The convention which began on Friday, October 27, was to end on Sunday.
The police have asked people gathered there to leave and not stay back to collect their belongings. Many had left their wallets and other belongings behind when the blasts occurred.
Thrikkakkara Assistant Commissioner said that 10 buses were arranged for people to get away.
A team of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has also reached the spot by noon.
The police have released a number for the call centre, for people to contact for lost belongings or other needs: 0484-2423513
(This is a developing story)