President Pranab Mukherjee condoles loss of lives in Afghanistan terror attack

The President said, “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."

He said: "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."

At least 80 people were killed as twin explosions hit a mammoth rally staged by the Hazara minority in Afghanistan's Kabul city on Saturday, media reports said.

According to reports, the explosions left 231 people injured.

The explosions occurred at around  2:30 pm, reports said.

Luqman, one of the rally participants, told Pajhwok Afghan News the first explosion happened near the Barikot Cinema and the second followed in Demazang Square.

Militant group Islamic State  has claimed responsibility for the attack.

"The Islamic State’s (IS) ‘Amaq News Agency reported that the group carried out a dual suicide operation in Kabul’s Deh Mazang area in Afghanistan," SITE Intel Group's website said.