New Delhi, Feb 22(IRNA)
While underlining the need for 'effective action' against terror groups wherever they exist, India on Thursday hoped Pakistan would cooperate in 'identifying and punishing' those responsible for the Samjhauta Express blasts.

New Delhi emphasized that it was determined to investigate the attack and bring perpetrators of the crime to justice.

"This attack underscores the need for effective action against terrorist groups wherever they exist," External Affairs Ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna told reporters here referring to the blasts on cross-border Samjhauta train which killed 68 people.

"We hope that authorities in Pakistan will extend all cooperation in investigations when required in the interest of identifying and punishing the guilty," the spokesman said.

The statement assumes significance considering that a link to terror groups based Pakistan to the blast is being investigated after it came to light that a phone call was made from Delhi to Pakistan- occupied Kashmir soon after the blasts on Sunday night.

The government also expressed gratitude to the international community for condemning the blasts and sending messages of sympathy.

Of the 68 people killed in the attack, 33 have been identified, Sarna said, adding 27 among the identified bodies are those of Pakistani nationals.

Bodies of 21 identified Pakistani nationals have been handed over to Pakistan, the spokesman said.

He said efforts are underway to identify all the bodies and help relatives of the victims to visit India.

A C-130 plane of Pakistan Air Force arrived here to airlift seven injured persons admitted in Safdarjung Hospital and their relatives.

Three of the injured Pakistanis have opted to return via Wagah border.

The special visa camps set up in Islamabad and Lahore continue to function and relatives of the victims are being approached directly, Sarna said.

The Indian government has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to those killed in the blasts and Rs 50,000 each to the injured.