Kerala temple tragedy: Sonia, Rahul express grief

New Delhi: Congress president Sonia Gandhi and vice president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday expressed shock and grief over the fire tragedy in a Kerala temple that killed nearly 100 people.

"Praying for the departed souls and well being of the injured. I have asked the government to ensure ample and immediate relief measures," Sonia Gandhi said.

Rahul Gandhi said he had spoken to Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and urged him to ensure adequate relief, medical care and assistance to the injured.

"News of devastating fire at Puttingal temple in Kollam ... is extremely shocking. My prayers are with the families of those who've lost loved ones in this tragedy," he said in a tweet.

The tragedy occurred early on Sunday morning when a fireworks display caused a blaze at the temple in the coastal town of Paravur, about 60 km from Thiruvananthapuram.

IANS