Kashmiris Observing Indian Republic Day As Black Day

NEW DELHI: Kashmiris Observing Indian Republic Day As Black Day, Indian Paramilitary soldiers and police set up roadblocks and snipers took positions atop government buildings as India celebrated its national day Tuesday against the backdrop of a terror alert.

Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and across the world are observing Indian Republic Day as Black Day.

India celebrates its Republic Day on Jan. 26 every year, but this year the security measures have been notched up following intelligence reports of a possible terror attack by militants.

Security has also been tightened at all major government telecommunications and power installations, with additional personnel deployed, police said. At least 15,000 paramilitary soldiers were deployed in and around the capital of New Delhi to ensure safety along the route of an annual parade _ the highlight of India’s Republic Day festivities, said police spokesman Rajan Bhagat.

In downtown New Delhi, hundreds of thousands of people gathered to witness the parade a showcase of Indian military and cultural pomp under the watchful eyes of armed police.

South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, who is on a four-day official visit to India, was the chief guest at the parade, which included marching bands and contingents of soldiers and schoolchildren and an aeronautic display by air force planes.