We learned with deep sorrow that more than 100 people lost their lives and over 200 people were injured as a result of the fire that broke out in the firework stockpile at the Puttingal Temple in the Indian state of Kerala early morning today (10 April).

We convey our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in particular, and to the Government and people of India. We also wish speedy recovery to the injured.