Nice attack: All Indians safe, confirms MEA

Reeling under the horrific massacre of at least 84 people in the French Riviera town of Nice by a radicalised truck-driver who mowed down innocents, French ambassador Alexandre Ziegler vowed to “resist”, even as both India and the French envoy said there were no reports of any Indian being killed in the terror act.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the deadly truck attack in France terming it as a “mindless act of violence”. He said India shares the pain and stands firmly with France in this hour of “immense sadness”.

“We will resist. We are stronger than the fanatics who attack us. We are deeply shocked. It is a terrible day for us,” the French ambassador said. “We will defend France’s way of life,” he said, adding that the values of democracy, freedom, human rights and tolerance would be protected. The massacre took place on Bastille Day, with people out on the streets to celebrate which explains the high death toll. He also said France would continue to work closely with India in intelligence-sharing to combat terror.

In New Delhi, the ministry of external affairs said, “Our embassy in Paris has opened a helpline number... Our ambassador in Paris is in touch with the Indian community in Nice. So far, no report of any Indians affected.” External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said at about noon on Friday all Indians were safe.

“I have spoken to our ambassador in France Shri Mohan Kumar. He has again confirmed that all Indians are safe,” she tweeted.

In his reaction, Mr Modi said, “Appalled by the horrific attack in Nice. I strongly condemn such mindless acts of violence. My thoughts are with the families of deceased.” He added, “I hope the injured recover soon. India shares the pain and stands firmly with our French sisters & brothers in this hour of immense sadness.”

In a letter to French President Francois Hollande, President Pranab Mukherjee conveyed condolences on the loss of lives in the heinous act of terror last evening in Nice and said India stands beside the people of France with solidarity and sympathy.

The President said, “I am deeply pained to learn that France is once again afflicted by a major tragedy caused by a heinous act of terror last evening”, adding, “The pre-meditated massacre of innocent people as they were participating in Bastille Day celebrations — including, sadly, many children, is an unspeakable crime.”

“The people of India stand beside the people of France with solidarity and sympathy. We share your grief at the loss of lives and pray for the swift recovery of the injured,” President Mukherjee said.

“India stands shoulder to shoulder with the people and government of France as it responds to this attack. ... We will strengthen our cooperation with France and other countries in the fight against terrorism,” the President said.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi too strongly condemned the deadly terrorist attack and said that it reflects “deep resentment” to peace and democratic values. Expressing her deepest condolences to the families of those killed, the Congress President said that her party stands firmly with the people of France in these difficult times. “This deadly attack reflects deep resentment to peace and democratic values,” Ms Gandhi said in a statement.