President Mukherjee condoles loss of lives in Nice terror attack

President Pranab Mukherjee has written to his French counterpart Francois Hollande, conveying condolences on the loss of lives in a heinous act of terror which took place on Thursday evening.

In his message, the President said, "I am deeply pained to learn that France is once again afflicted by a major tragedy caused by a heinous act of terror last evening. The pre-meditated massacre of innocent people as they were participating in Bastille Day celebrations - including, sadly, many children, is an unspeakable crime.

"Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this shocking incident. The people of India stand beside the people of France with solidarity and sympathy. We share your grief at the loss of lives and pray for the swift recovery of the injured," he added.

At least 84 people were killed in the attack, including 10 children and teenagers while watching fireworks display marking the end of the French national holiday, when Mohamed Lahouaiej Bouhlel, a 31-year-old man of Franco-Tunisian origin, drove a lorry into them.

No group has said it carried out the attack, but officials said it bore the hallmark of a terrorist organisation.