Government forces have tightened security in a remote northeast Indian state after separatist rebels urged residents to boycott upcoming Republic Day celebrations and join a general strike. The rebels, who are seeking independence for Assam state, have carried out shootings and bomb attacks in previous years during the national holiday, which marks the adoption of the Indian charter on January 26, 1950.
At least 10,000 people, mostly civilians, have died in fighting between government forces and separatists during the past three decades in Assam state. Four insurgent groups said in a joint statement Wednesday ``We believe in a political process to resolve the conflicts satisfactorily. But we are firm about countering India's military repression of our struggle.'