Authorities have found an improvised explosive device in a bin located near the site of the explosion today which injured several people, including foreign tourists.
Also, preliminary investigations into the Varanasi blast have revealed that the explosion was caused by a device concealed in a jug containing milk.
"It would be premature to make any comment on the nature of the blast. The blast was big enough to cause damage as well as panic and commotion in the entire area," said state Additional Director General of Police Brij Lal.
The country has now activated terror-response teams across major cities including Hyderabad and Bengaluru even as a high-level meeting is on in Lucknow where senior officials are working out a plan to contain any possible tension due to the explosion.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has expressed concern over the blasts and has called for calm.
Singh has asked the Home Ministry for a detailed report on the incident, a PMO spokesperson said. The prime minister also appealed to the people to maintain calm and peace, he added.