President Mukherjee condoles loss of lives in Kabul twin blasts

New Delhi, July 23 : President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday condoled loss of lives in twin blasts in Afghanistan's Kabul today, which left 61 people dead and around 207 wounded. "I am shocked and saddened to learn of the blast which hit Deh Mazang square in Kabul today. I strongly condemn the perpetrators of the incident," the President said in his condolence message. "I convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in the blast and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. The Government of India stands ready to extend all possible assistance to the Government and people of Afghanistan," he added. Earlier, Islamic State claimed responsibility for twin explosions that ripped through crowds of Shia Hazaras in Kabul in apparently their deadliest attack in the Afghan capital. They had gathered to demand that a major regional electric power line be routed through their impoverished home province.