Wednesday, March 1 2006 13:09 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: President A P J Abdul Kalam has condoled the death of people killed in a landmine blast triggered by naxalites in Chattisgarh and hoped that the state administration was taking steps to provide relief to thoseaffected.

"I have learnt that a number of people have lost their lives in a landmine blast in Dantewala district in Chattisgarh kindly convey my sympathies to the next kin of those who lost their lives and to the families of those who have been affected," the President said in a message sent to the chief Minister of the state.

He also expressed hope that the state administration was taking all measures to provide relief to those affected by the blast, including the injured, and especially those families who have lost their dear ones.

In the worst ever naxal violence in Chhattisgarh, 26 villagers were killed and over 50 injured yesterday in a landmine blast targeting vehicles carrying people who attendedan anti-naxal rally in Dantewada district.