US advisory warns of terror strikes

NEW DELHI: The US on Sunday issued a travel advisory warning its citizens about possibility of terrorist attacks in India during the festival season.

“The Department of State reminds US citizens of the continued possibility of terrorist attacks throughout India during the current Indian holiday season, which includes Hindu, Islamic and secular holidays as well as the period surrounding the commemoration of the September 11 terror attacks,” a statement said.

The US state department advised Americans to be cautious and maintain a low profile during their travel to India during this period which includes festivals like Dusshera, Eid and Diwali. The statement also mentions the November, 2008, Mumbai terror attacks saying “it provided a vivid reminder that hotels and other public places are especially attractive targets for terrorist groups.”

It asked Americans to monitor local news reports and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, or choosing hotels, restaurants, entertainment and recreation venues.

Meanwhile, in a development that will strengthen India’s plea for a reduction in western aid to Islamabad, former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf has admitted that Pakistan has been diverting funds provided by the US as aid to fight al Qaeda and Taliban towards fortifying itself against India.

Mr Musharraf admitted in an interview to a news channel that he had violated rules governing the use of the military aid, and justified his actions by saying he had “acted in the best interest of Pakistan,” and that he “did not care” about the American response.