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Security stepped up in Indian-controlled Kashmir ahead of Obama's visit

Xinhua, January 23, 2015 Adjust font size:

Authorities in Indian-controlled Kashmir have stepped up security measures and sounded an alert days ahead of U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to India, officials said here Thursday.

"Security has been beefed up in the region and there is close synergy between police and army in the hinterland to ensure no untoward incident happens," K Rajendra, region's police chief told media in Jammu, the region's winter capital.

The U.S. president is scheduled to visit Indian capital New Delhi as the chief guest at India's Republic day celebrations and ceremonial parade on Jan. 26.

During his stay, Obama is also scheduled to visit the Taj Mahal.

Indian military has warned of militant attacks ahead of Obama's high-profile visit.

Indian police and paramilitary troopers of India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) deployed on roads in the restive region were seen checking vehicles and pedestrians in twin capital cities of Srinagar and Jammu.

The authorities have also closed down some schools as a precautionary step.

"Some schools in the cantonment have been closed and we have sounded an alert to the police to remain cautious," a senior government official Shantmanu told media.

Every year the Republic Day is celebrated on Jan. 26 in India. The main function is held in Indian capital New Delhi, where India 's army, navy and air force display their skills and military might.

Indian officials have sounded an alert across many Indian cities including New Delhi and Mumbai.

Reports said authorities have also increased patrolling along International Border (IB) between India and Pakistan.

The troops of India and Pakistan have been targeting each other 's positions for quite some time on IB despite a cease-fire agreement.

Both New Delhi and Islamabad blame each other of violating the cease-fire.

Over the past one week, around eight militants were killed by troops in three different gunfights, while militants also shot dead an Indian policeman in the region.

Gunfight between militants and Indian troopers takes place intermittently in the restive region.

Kashmir, the Himalayan region divided between India and Pakistan is claimed by both in full. Since their independence from Britain, the two countries have fought three wars, two exclusively over Kashmir. Endi