Calling it a "cowardly act" on the part of Maoists, Congress chief Sonia Gandhi Sunday said the strike was not an attack on the Congress or its leaders, but an attack on democratic values.
"This is a cowardly act. It is not an attack on Congress or its leaders but an attack on democratic values," Sonia Gandhi said, while addressing party workers at the Congress Bhawan here.
Lauding the courage of party workers, Gandhi said: "I appreciate the courage and bravery of the leaders who, despite several threats, visited Naxal affected areas."
A large number of Maoists Saturday attacked a Congress party convoy, blocking its way with felled trees, setting off a landmine blast and then opening fire.
The attack left at least 16 dead and over 25 injured.