26. Bomb blast at Conference

CHAPTER 26

Bomb blast at Conference

Science conference was going on. International scientists were all attending the meet. Security was tight. Presiding American scientist stood up to give a speech. All were listening silently.

Far away, one man was standing near a security guard and watching the proceedings. He put his hand into his bag. Immediately a big explosion took place near the table on the stage. 10 to 12 dead bodies fell. Fire and smoke filled the conference room. Shouts and screamed filled the silent atmosphere.

Cameras showed the scene on TV. News flashed on TV channels.

Reporter said, “Bomb blasts in IT science conference in India. 10 to 12 famous scientists are spot dead.”

Security men surrounded the area. Ambulance, doctors and police arrived. TV showed the President in a shocked state. Prime Minister gave a statement expressing his regret.

Reporter said, “The bomb blast took place near the table. The investigation officers are trying to find out how the blast took place.”

Injured men were shifted to the hospital. Their relatives came and cried bitterly.

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Ram was in his bed with his new wife. It was his first night after marriage. He got a phone call from his boss Choudhary.

Choudhary said, “Sorry to disturb you on your marriage day. But I am helpless. I had to alert you.”

Ram got up immediately. “Sir, tell me. What happened?”

“Just watch the TV.” Said Chaudhary and put down the phone.

Vasundara got up and asked, “What happened?”

Ram said, “My boss had phoned. We have to watch the TV news.”

He went out into the hall.

Guests were all were sleeping in the hall. Hearing the sound of Ram entering, his sister got up. “What happened, Ram?”

Ram sat on the sofa and said, “Put on the TV.”

Sangita put on the TV. Ram took the remote and changed the channel to news.

News reporter said, “Bomb blast in Science conference. 10 to 12 famous scientists are spot dead.”

Ram started feeling very hot and angry.

News Reporter continued, “According to the police, it must be the job of terrorists. Investigation is going on.”

Ram was shocked. He sat down with his eyes closed. Then he phoned to Choudhary. “Sir, what a terrible thing to happen. My blood is boiling. Those bastards.”

Choudhary said on phone. “Sorry to disturb you. But you have to go and take charge immediately. Find out who is responsible.”

Ram said, “Ok sir. I am leaving now itself and will reach Bangalore at midnight.”

He put down the phone and entered the bedroom. He opened the cupboard and put on his dress.

Vasundara was watching anxiously. Ram approached and kissed her on the forehead. He looked into her eyes. “Sorry. I have to leave immediately.”

Wife said coolly, “I lost my parents due to those terrorists and I am lucky to be the wife of a commando like you. Go and catch them first. Then we can have Shobana happily after they are caught.”

Ram hugged her. “I am lucky to have a wife like you. Thank you for understanding the situation.”

He took his suitcase and went to the front door. All looked at him.

Srilaxmi was shocked. “Why are you leaving so soon?”

Ram said, “Don’t say that. Give me your blessings. I have to catch that bastard.”

He bowed down before her. She put her hand on his head. “May god bless you.”