Guwahati: In a major Independence Day strike, ULFA (United Liberation Front of Assam) militants today (Aug 15, 2004) exploded a powerful bomb in the Dhemaji college field where official celebrations were on and killed 15 persons, mostly school children.

According to official sources in Guwahati, the militants exploded the powerful bomb through a remote controlled device at the entrance of the field where the Independence Day celebrations was on.

School children, who were participating in the parade as well those who had come to watch were among those killed, sources said.

Panic prevailed immediately after the blast as people ran in every direction as the police faced a tough time in controlling the situation.

Top police officials have rushed to the spot.