'In contact with Indians who are injured…’, India responds to Magdeburg Christmas market attack

The attack comes amid intense political debate in Germany over security and migration, with rising far-right influence in the ongoing election campaign. (Image credit: AP)

India has strongly condemned the horrific Christmas market attack in Magdeburg, Germany, which left five people dead, including a 9-year-old child, and dozens more injured. The Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep sorrow over the senseless violence, offering condolences to the victims and their families. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims. Our Mission is in contact with Indians who are injured, as well as their families, and rendering all possible assistance," the ministry said in a statement.

India condemns Christmas market attack in Germany's Magdeburg in which five people, including a 9-year-old child, were killed. #GermanyAttack#Germanypic.twitter.com/BFsXSWEsgI

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Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 21, 2024

The attack, which took place on December 20 evening, saw a car-ramming incident at a bustling Christmas market in the city of Magdeburg, located in eastern Germany. German authorities have identified a 50-year-old Saudi doctor with a history of anti-Islam rhetoric as the suspected driver. He was arrested at the scene, and police are continuing investigations, including a search of his residence.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed outrage over the attack, calling it "a terrible act" and emphasising the brutality of the assault. "Over 200 people have been injured, with nearly 40 in critical condition," Scholz added, as he laid a white rose at a church in Magdeburg to honor the victims.

The attack comes amid intense political debate in Germany over security and migration, with rising far-right influence in the ongoing election campaign. The suspect's online posts, which support anti-Islam rhetoric and far-right parties such as the Alternative for Germany (AfD), have further intensified concerns surrounding the incident.