Sunday, October 30 2005 10:30 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today (Oct 30, 2005)called a meeting of the Union Cabinet to discuss the situation arising out of the serial bomb blasts in the capital yesterday (Oct 29, 2005), which claimed 55 lives.

Singh, who cut short his visit to West Bengal and returned to Delhi yesterday night condemned the blasts as 'cynical and pre-meditated attacks on innocent people.'

Describing the serial blasts as 'dastardly acts' of terrorism aimed at the people of India, Singh said the Government will not allow these nefarious designs to succeed.

"The terrorists wish to spread a sense of fear and suspicion among peace-loving people. These blasts have been timed to create disaffection during the festive season when people of all communities are celebrating our national festivals," he said.

"We shall defeat their nefarious designs and will not allow them to succeed. We are resolute in our commitment to fight terror in all forms," the Prime Minister said.

Sharing the shock and distress of all the people affected by the blasts, the Prime Minister said, "I am confident that the people of India have the will, capacity and resolution to win the war against terrorism.

"I urge the people to remain calm, not to panic or believe rumors and ensure that we go about our activities normally," he said.

He said the Government will take all possible measures to maintain law and order and defeat the forces of terrorism.