KATHMANDU: Maoists have expressed surprise at being blamed for the worst attack on civilians since their revolt in the Himalayan kingdom erupted in 1996, a website that backs their cause said on Tuesday. Thirty-eight people, among them women and children, were killed and 72 others wounded when a landmine ripped through their bus in southern Nepal on Monday.

The Maoists are normally swift to release statements claiming responsibility for, or disowning, attacks on government installations, security posts and army convoys, but they have made no official comment since Monday’s blast.

Internet news service Krishnasenonline.org said the rebels, who are fighting to topple the monarchy, were carrying out a “serious investigation” into the incident.

—Reuters