Imphal, January 25 2009: With the security apparatus put on high alert to avert any subversive activities during the Republic Day celebrations tomorrow, security forces and UG cadres engaged in a 'real' gun fight today.

The shoot-out between a combined team of Thoubal police commandos and troops of 21 Assam Rifles and suspected UG cadres took place at Wabagai Ningol Khong in Thoubal district at about 1 pm, informed a police source.

However, there is no report of any casualty on either side during the shoot-out marked by intermittent firing.

After the brief encounter, the suspected militants fled in the direction of the lake, added the source.

Notably, some insurgent groups operating in the North East region including Manipur have called upon the people to boycott the Republic Day celebrations besides imposing general strike on January 26 .

On the other hand, the State Government has put all its security apparatus on high alert in view of the boycott call and general strike as well as to pre-empt any subversive activity.

Particularly, security arrangement around Imphal has been tightened to the maximum.