Taking seriously the recent e-mail threat of Indian Mujahideen about their plans to target the hill state, the government today decided to step up security all over the state, and keep a strict vigil on suspicious foreign nationals and migrants staying here as tourists and labourers.

Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, who returned here this morning from a two-day tour of Hamirpur, held a meeting with top police, intelligence, security and Home Department officials. The chief minister issued specific orders to strengthen security at all entry points, prominent religious shrines, venues of important fairs and festivals, and important installations like hydro-electric projects.

Other places where security will be stepped up include busy markets, crowded public places and important tourists destinations.

The security agencies have been advised to keep a track of the movements of the foreign nationals overstaying in the state, and also unregistered migrant labourers coming to Himachal for work. Senior government officials present at the meeting said the CM was very particular about security at the fairs, organised during the 'Navratra' festival and the Kullu Dussehra.

The vehicles entering the state will be searched thoroughly. The CM said there was a need to maintain strict vigil on guesthouses, hotels, resorts, sarais, parking places and other establishments, besides increasing the night patrolling.