Terror blurs political divides

L K Advani, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha: 8220;Terrorists have sought to sever the country8217;s economic nerve8230; no other city has faced the brunt of terrorism so repeatedly8230; it is a continuation of the March 12, 1993 serial blasts8230; Both the UPA at the Centre and the Congress-NCP coalition government in Maharshtra have a lot to answer.8221;

Siddharth Patel, Gujarat Pradesh Congress president: 8220;It is a conspiracy to spread terror across the country, which calls for a united fight. Stern action is needed against the elements hampering the progress of the country.8221;

Movement for Secular Democracy: 8220;Use of the sea route is a matter of concern. Though intelligence failed, the NSG8217;s role is exemplary. Narendra Modi suggests following the US example in tackling terrorism. The US lifestyle of free from violence, prejudice and hatred should also be followed.8221;

Jayant Patel, Gujarat NCP president: 8220;Such elements cannot be pardoned. To retain the public8217;s faith in our democracy, it is necessary to nip them in the bud.8221;

Girish Dani, former GCCI president: 8220;Terrorists infiltrating the port city have cocked a snook at the government8217;s huge security setup and largescale spending on intelligence. The attack is a slap on the face of the Centre. It is time to shed ad-hocism.8221;

Fr Cedric Prakash, director Prashant: 8220;We urge the governments 8212; both at the Centre and the states 8212; to shed their prejudices and differences, shun vote bank politics and stand united against terrorism. They should ensure a more secure, non-violent and peaceful India.8221;

Nihar Mukherjee, secretary, Socialist Unity Centre of India: 8220;The government suddenly finding hundreds of suspected elements coming via the sea route is a lame excuse to shield its inaction and failure in discharging its minimal obligation to the people.8221;