Kabul blasts might be 'chemical attack': Parrikar

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday said that the Indian Army should be well-prepared to tackle any difficulties while referring to the Kabul blasts as a probable chemical attack.

"As per the reports which are coming from the southern and northern parts of Afghanistan, I have seen photographs of local population suffering from blisters and some chemical weapons. At this moment, I don't have confirmation on this matter but the photos were quite distressing," Parrikar said while addressing a speech at the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO).

He continued, "Though we have not faced nuclear or chemical attacks, but we will have to be prepared at every moment to deal with the issue."

The Defence Minister asserted that the India Army has to be alert and prepared for any tragedy.

Two separate attacks took place a day before in the Afghan capital. The death toll in the explosion has risen to 22 with at least 119 people injured, according to the local officials.

According to reports, the Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attack in different parts of Kabul including a police headquarters in the western part of the city, wounding several people.