Clashes raise Kashmir tensions

Both sides are continuing to move forces closer to the disputed border

NEW DELHI, India -- Indian and Pakistani forces are reported to have exchanged heavy fire overnight Sunday and early Monday along the Line of Control dividing the disputed region of Kashmir.

Officials on the Indian side say at least one soldier was killed in the clashes, which saw heavy artillery, mortar and machinegun fire along a broad stretch of the ceasefire line.

Several casualties were also reported on the Pakistani side, with officials saying at least six civilians were killed.

The firing comes amid rising tensions between the two nuclear-armed rivals following a raid on an Indian army camp which India blames on Islamic militant groups it says operate with Pakistani support.

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Diplomats say Pakistan's testing of two missiles this weekend has aggravated the situation.

The latest exchange has been described by officials on both sides of the Line of Control (LOC) as the heaviest seen in several weeks.

Villagers living close to the disputed border have begun fleeing their homes fearing an escalation in the fighting.

India demands action

Between them India and Pakistan have amassed around a million troops along their shared border since a bloody attack on the Indian parliament in New Delhi last December.

India is demanding Pakistan take action against the militant groups it says are responsible for carrying out terrorist attacks on Indian targets.

On Sunday the Indian government warned that it was running out of patience with Pakistan who it accuses of arming and funding the militants.

However, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee said he would wait and see whether international efforts to persuade Pakistan to crack down on the militants bore any fruit.

Pakistan has denied any responsibility for the attacks saying it only gives moral support to groups seeking self-determination for the people of Kashmir.