Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=08/12/01

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=INDIA/SECURITY(L-only)

NUMBER=2-279229

BYLINE=ANJANA PASRICHA

DATELINE=NEW DELHI

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Security has been tightened in the Indian capital following a crude bomb explosion. Anjana Pasricha reports from New Delhi, security forces are on high alert for attacks by separatist militant groups ahead of the country's Independence Day celebrations later this week (August 15th).

TEXT: The crude bomb exploded overnight (late Saturday) in a popular, and usually crowed, shopping district in South Delhi. But there were few people around because the market was shut. Police reported two cyclists were injured.

A tight security net has been clamped on the city in preparation for the August 15th Independence Day celebrations.

The annual event is boycotted by rebel groups in Kashmir and the country's northeast. They call Independence Day "black day."

Security concerns are especially strong this year, due to a surge in violence by Muslim separatist groups in Kashmir, following a failed summit between the Indian and Pakistani leaders.

Officials say they have intelligence reports that hardline Pakistan-based militant groups may be planning attacks in against senior government leaders. The Red Fort, from where the Indian prime minister addresses the nation, has been shut to tourists for a week. Senior Delhi police officer R-S Gupta explains.

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Renewed directions have been issued to Pak(istan)-sponsored terrorists that they must

indulge in acts of violence in the country. We in Delhi police have made elaborate

arrangements for ensuring the peaceful conduct of the Independence Day celebrations.

/ / / END ACTUALITY / / /

Security is also tight in Kashmir, with hundreds of paramilitary troops carrying out search and cordon operations across the summer capital Srinagar, where Independence Day celebrations are held at a heavily-guarded stadium. Kashmir's main separatist alliance, the All Parties Huriyat Conference has called for a general strike on August 15th.

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In the remote northeast, authorities Sunday canceled operation of night trains, as separatists threatened major strikes in the runup to Independence Day celebrations. In the past, passenger trains and strategic bridges have been attacked. More than 150-thousand troops are on alert in the region. Indian security forces have been battling guerrilla groups in Kashmir and in the country's northeast region for more than a decade. (signed)

NEB/AP/TW