Maharashhtra on alert as Iraq war enrages Muslims

Security forces have been put on high alert in areas prone to communal violence in the state in view of protests held by Muslims over the continuing US-led war in Iraq.

The Maharashtra government has asked the police to remain alert in anticipation of protests by Muslims against the war in Iraq.

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Officials say Muslims are furious over the continuing US-led war in Iraq. A number of protests have been held in different parts of the state since the war began March 20.

Officials say security forces are on high alert in "sensitive" towns prone to communal violence.

The State Reserve Police Force, Central Reserve Police Force, Rapid Action Force and commandos have been deployed in various parts of Mumbai, officials said.

Muslims are expected to converge on the streets after midday prayers Friday to denounce the war on Iraq.

The Muslim Council of India has also called for a boycott of American made products to protest against the war in Iraq as well as for the US failure to contain Pakistan-backed terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Muslim religious leaders are expected to call for a boycott of American goods.