Security alert in Asom after ULFA's killing spree

Guwahati, Jan 6 (UNI) Security was tightened across Asom, particulary in Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts, after ULFA unleashed a string of attacks since last night killing at least 31 people.

State government spokesperson and Cabinet Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma informed reporters here today that security arrangements would be reviewed in the wake of last night's attacks.

Officials had confirmation about 21 deaths while there were reports that 10 people had been gunned down in separate incidents in shoot-outs and blasts carried out by the banned outfit in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts last night. The victims were mostly Hindi-speaking people.

Mr Sharma said 24 additional companies of state police and CRPF posted in Karbi Anglong for the autonomous council polls today would be shifted to the affected districts after the day's voting.

He said eight additional companies were also posted in North Cachar Hills to provide security to railway gauge conversion workers, who cannot be withdrawn due to threat perceptions there.

Mr Sharma informed that 120 additional companies were posted in the state presently, with the state government asking for another 78 companies to handle security during the National Games in February and railway gauge conversion.

''These figures could be revised and more troops asked for after reviewing the situation in the wake of last night's attacks,'' he added.

He said SPs and DCs of all districts have been directed to ensure safety and security of Hindi-speaking people across the state.

Mr Sharma further informed that the Centre had been contacted to ask neighbouring states to provide security for railway passengers from the state.

UNI