Srinagar, Jan 23: In anticipation of Republic Day celebrations, security measures have been intensified in Kashmir to ensure a smooth and peaceful event in the valley. Police and other security personnel are engaged in sanitization and area domination exercises, deploying forces in the city and district headquarters, according to officials on Tuesday. Checkpoints have been set up, particularly at entry points to the city and other districts, where security forces are conducting random vehicle checks and frisking individuals to prevent the movement of any subversive elements.
While the main Republic Day function is scheduled for Jammu, presided over by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the largest event in the valley will be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, with similar functions planned at district headquarters. Security around the venues, including the stadium, has been strengthened, with a multi-layer security apparatus implemented.
Officials emphasized that security agencies have been instructed to stay vigilant and prevent any attempts to disturb law and order or disrupt peace. Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, V K Birdi assured that necessary arrangements are in place to ensure smooth celebrations. When asked about specific inputs on potential militant attacks, Birdi stated, “The arrangements are in place, the necessary measures have been taken. The security has been beefed up, and we will ensure smooth celebrations, be it in Srinagar or elsewhere in the valley.”
Director General of Police (DGP) R R Swain, in a high-level meeting on Saturday, had reviewed security measures across Jammu and Kashmir. Swain emphasized the need for a proactive approach and the implementation of innovative district-level plans to foil any intentions of adversaries. Ahead of Republic Day, a full-dress rehearsal is scheduled at Bakshi Stadium and other venues across the valley on Wednesday.
