External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the cowardly attack should be condemned in the strongest terms by all

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed shock at the cowardly terrorist attack on the Karte Parwan Gurudwara in Kabul on Saturday.

"Shocked by the cowardly terrorist attack against the Karte Parwan Gurudwara in Kabul. I condemn this barbaric attack, and pray for the safety and well-being of the devotees," PM Modi tweeted.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the cowardly attack should be condemned in the strongest terms by all.

"The cowardly attack on Gurudwara Karte Parwan should be condemned in the strongest terms by all. We have been closely monitoring developments since the news of the attack was received. Our first and foremost concern is for the welfare of the community," he wrote on Twitter.

Media reports said that at least two persons had been killed in the attack although more details are awaited.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that it was keeping a close watch on the developments.

"We are deeply concerned at the reports emanating from Kabul about an attack on a sacred Gurudwara in that city.

We are closely monitoring the situation and waiting for further details on the unfolding developments," MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in response to a media query.

According to reports, suspected Islamic State - Khorasan militants attacked Gurdwara Karte Parwan in the Afghan capital on Saturday morning. Unknown armed terrorists killed the guard and one more person as they entered the Gurdwara.

Eyewitnesses quoted in media reports recounted hearing an explosion from near the Gurdwara gate. Videos on social media showed thick plumes of smoke. About 25-30 Afghan Hindus and Sikhs were inside when the attack took place.

A cross-battle reportedly ensued between security personnel deployed near the Gurdwara and the terrorists.