Terrorism is a threat to all pluralist: Vice-President

Vice-President M. Hamid Ansari has expressed his grief at the loss of life in explosions at St. Petersburg, Russia.

In a message, he said that terrorism is a threat to all pluralist and open societies and we need to act together for dealing with this menace.

"I am grieved to learn of the loss of civilians lives in St. Petersburg, Russia. Terrorism is a threat to all pluralist and open societies and we need to act together for dealing with this menace. We stand with the people and Government of Russia in their moment of grief and pray for the bereaved families and early recovery of the injured," the Vice-President said.

St. Petersburg was shaken by an explosion that tore through a metro train on Monday, leaving at least 10 people dead and dozens injured.

The attack occurred as Russian President Vladimir Putin was visiting the city to address a media forum and meet the Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

"Naturally, we always consider all options -- both domestic and criminal, primarily incidents of a terrorist nature," Putin said.

The attacks come at a time of domestic political upheaval is Russia, as anti-corruption demonstrations have been held across Moscow and dozens of other cities over the past two weeks, with thousands of Russians taking to the streets to protest against corruption.