India Tightens Security in Kashmir Ahead of Modi Speech | WPN World People News

New Delhi has deployed thousands of troops across the India-controlled part of Kashmir as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to make a campaign visit to the region just days after deadly militant attacks.

Sharpshooters have been posted on rooftops in the main city of Srinagar, where Modi is scheduled to speak Monday at an election rally in a sports stadium.

There has been an increase in militant violence since five-stage local elections began in Indian Kashmir on November 25. Voter turnout has been high despite a call for a poll boycott by Muslim separatist leaders.

At least 20 people, including 11 security personnel, were killed in a series of attacks Friday.

In the worst of the raids, militants armed with AK-47 rifles hurled rocket propelled grenades at an army camp in Uri.

The camp is located near the line of control that divides Kashmir between India and Pakistan. Army officials called it a suicide attack and said that six militants died in the exchange of fire.

Rebel groups have been fighting against Indian rule in Kashmir since 1989.

More than 68,000 people have been killed in the uprising and Indian military crackdown, which has largely suppressed rebel activity.

New Delhi blames violence in Indian Kashmir on militants who come across the border in the disputed territory from Pakistan, an allegation Islamabad denies.

Source: Voice of America