The Indian Muslim Welfare Society condemns in the strongest terms the terrorist attack which took place in Manchester on Monday night.

We were extremely shocked and horrified to hear of the senseless killing and maiming of innocent people in Manchester on Monday. Our thoughts are with all those families who have lost loved ones and those who are still critically ill in hospital, we pray for their speedy recovery.

Terrorists seek to divide communities through the use of violence, and seek to push the narrative that Muslims cannot live in Britain. It goes without saying this is an utterly false narrative, and against the community spirit displayed by Mancunians.

This was a senseless murder and this attack should not cause division in the community. We should embrace the community spirit of Manchester as we go forward.

M. Saied Laher

Chair IMWS