27 November 1998
(Al-Umma group threatens violence in Tamil Nadu Dec. 6) (330) Washington -- The State Department Spokesman, in a public announcement on India November 27, said "the Al-Umma group, allegedly responsible for the February 1998 bombings in Coimbatore that killed 46, has threatened violent actions in the state of Tamil Nadu on December 6, the anniversary of the 1992 destruction of the Babri Mosque in Uttar Pradesh. "Threats are reported to include the killing of senior Indian government officials and destruction of unspecified multi-story buildings," the written statement said. "While the threat does not appear to be targeted at U.S. interests," the State Department said, "American citizens resident in south India as well as American citizens traveling in that region should be alert to the potential for violence and/or civil disorder on and around December 6. Americans should avoid mass gatherings at that time and be alert to their surroundings." Following is the State Department text: (begin text) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesman November 27, 1998 INDIA The Al-Umma group, allegedly responsible for the February 1998 bombings in Coimbatore that killed 46, has threatened violent actions in the state of Tamil Nadu on December 6, the anniversary of the 1992 destruction of the Babri Mosque in Uttar Pradesh. Threats are reported to include the killing of senior Indian government officials and destruction of unspecified multi-story buildings. While the threat does not appear to be targeted at U.S. interests, American citizens resident in south India as well as American citizens traveling in that region should be alert to the potential for violence and/or civil disorder on and around December 6. Americans should avoid mass gatherings at that time and be alert to their surroundings. For further information about travel to India, please consult the Department of State's latest Consular Information Sheet on India. This Public Announcement expires December 31, 1998. (end text)