WASHINGTON?The State Department said Tuesday it may impose sanctions on a Pakistani-based group that is fighting for an end to Indian rule in Kashmir.

Spokesman Richard Boucher said the administration is taking a ?very close look? at the Jaish-e-Mohammed group, with a view toward placing it on the list of foreign terrorist organizations.

The group first claimed responsibility for an attack a week ago in Kashmir that killed at least 38 people.

Membership on the list means it is illegal for Americans to provide material support, and U.S. financial institutions must block their assets.

Secretary of State Colin Powell plans to visit India and Pakistan over the next few days. His aim is to strengthen the U.S. coalition against terrorism.

Beyond stops in India and Pakistan, Powell?s travel plans have not been pinned down.