Unprecedented security for J

Srinagar, July 27 (UNI) Sharp shooters with automatic weapons today took positions in and around the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative complex near here in view of the six-day session starting from tomorrow.

However, for security reasons it was not immediately clear whether President A P J Abdul Kalam will address the joint session of the legislature at Legislative complex or Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Complex on the bank of famed Dal Lake tomorrow.

Official sources said the Assembly hall cannot accommodate all the members from both the Houses, besides other guests.

Security forces wearing bullet proof jackets and holding automatic weapons have been deployed in and around the entire complex and on the bank of the river Jehlum to thwart any militant attack during the session.

We do not want to take any chances, official sources said.

The fidayeen rammed the explosive laden vehicle with the main gate of the complex and in the melee, one of the militant entered the legislative council building. He was later killed by the security forces and the building was completely gutted. About to people were killed in the attack that occured on October 1, 2001.

Sources said traffic on the main Badshah bridge would remain suspended during the session and vehicles would have to take other route to reach Badshah Chowk and other areas.

The shopkeepers in the nearby periphery have been directed to close their shops for security reasons during the session.

Patrolling in river Jehlum has also been intensified to foil any militant attack through river side.

A large number of security forces from the Central Reserve Police Force and Jammu and Kashmir police have also been deployed in Maisuma-bund area.

Sharp shooters are also keeping a close watch with the help of binoculars from high rise buildings in the area.

Security forces have also intensified foot and night patrolling.

Meanwhile, all vehicles entering the city from outskirts and districts are being properly searched at different check points.

The occupants are being frisked and their identity cards verified before allowing them to proceed further.

We have orders to check the vehicles as intelligence reports say militants will try to smuggle arms and ammunition into the city from other parts to cause disturbances during the assembly session and President Kalam's visit, a security force official added.

UNI BAS AK RS1526