At least 38 people were killed and over 70 injured in three serial blasts triggered by terrorists in New Delhi on Saturday, DPA reported. Two explosions took place in busy shopping areas three days before Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights which led authorities to confirm that terrorists were behind the explosions. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh asserted that India will win the battle against terrorism, while terming the blasts a "cynical attack on innocent civilians". Police officials told news channels that it was a "clear act of terrorism", and said homemade bombs could have been used in the attacks. The first explosion took place near the vegetable market in Paharganj in the heart of New Delhi, an area popular with foreign tourists. Delhi's Police Commissioner K.K. Paul confirmed that 15 people had died in the explosion in the area where thousands had gathered to shop for the festive season. Eyewitnesses said the death toll could go up as scores of critically injured were rushed to hospitals in ambulances. Scenes of panic and chaos were witnessed soon after the powerful explosion destroyed several shops. People anxious to know about the fate of their relatives argued with police who had cordoned off the area. --More 1912 Local Time 1612 GMT
