High security alert in Asom for I-Day

Guwahati, Aug 14 (UNI) A high alert has been sounded in Asom ahead of the Independence Day even as the Army declared suspension of operations since last night amidst a spurt in ULFA offensive.

The banned United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), which is in indirect talks with the Centre, has stepped up strikes over the past two weeks. Over 12 people, mostly security personnel, had been killed in the mayhem even as the outfit continued its attack on a daily basis.

Frisking of passengers and checking of luggage and vehicles have been under taken through out the state.

Bus depots, railway stations and airports have been covered in the security blanket with the security personnel on high alert.

Railway sources said platforms, trains and all passengers were being checked after bomb scares were reported in various trains over the past few days. All night trains have been suspended till August 16, the source added.

Security at the airports had also been tightened, sources said.

Besides, vigil was also being kept at all refineries, temples, gas pipelines and major bridges.

Police sources informed that security at all celebration venues had been heightened as these spots were regular targets of the terrorists.

As in past years, five major ultra organisations of the North East, including the ULFA and the KLO, have called for boycott of the Independence Day celebrations and called for a bandh on that day.

Yesterday's announcement of suspension of anti-insurgency operations may be viewed as a boost to the peace process, but it has not indicated any let down in the ULFA offensive.

Attacks by suspected ULFA militants were carried out in Nalbari and Digboi yesterday, though no casualties were reported.

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