TAUSEEF AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Jan 23: With Republic Day fast approaching, security agencies across Kashmir have put in place an extensive, multi-layered security apparatus to ensure that the national celebrations pass off peacefully and without any untoward incident. Senior police officials said that heightened vigilance, intensified patrolling and strengthened surveillance mechanisms have been activated across the Valley, particularly in Srinagar and other sensitive districts.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V.K. Birdi, on Friday said that a robust and well-coordinated security grid has been established across the Valley, with the Jammu and Kashmir Police working in close synergy with various paramilitary forces. The arrangements, he said, are aimed at maintaining law and order and safeguarding public gatherings during the Republic Day functions.
Speaking to reporters after paying homage at the Balidan Stambh in Srinagar, IGP Birdi said that elaborate security measures have been rolled out well in advance of January 26. “We have put in place multi-layered security arrangements across Srinagar and the entire Valley to ensure that Republic Day celebrations are conducted peacefully and smoothly,” he said.
The IGP said that security forces have significantly enhanced patrolling, frisking and checking operations, particularly in sensitive and vulnerable areas. Area domination exercises are being carried out on a regular basis, while additional checkpoints and mobile vehicle checking points have been established at key locations in Srinagar and other district headquarters to deter any possible threats.
Providing details about the main Republic Day event, IGP Birdi said that after the traditional tribute to the martyrs at the Balidan Stambh, the central function will be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar. “Police personnel, students and members of the general public will participate in the parade. The chief guests will receive the salute during the ceremonial proceedings,” he added.
Meanwhile, security has also been tightened along the Line of Control (LoC). Earlier, DIG Border Security Force (BSF), Bandipora, told Kashmir Despatch that surveillance along the LoC has been further strengthened in view of intelligence inputs indicating possible infiltration attempts. He said that additional measures have been taken to thwart any such attempts and prevent any disruption during the Republic Day celebrations.
Officials said that personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF and other paramilitary forces have been deployed in a coordinated manner across the Valley. Special emphasis has been laid on crowd management, traffic regulation and securing Republic Day venues, particularly the Bakshi Stadium and surrounding areas.
The authorities have also appealed to the public to cooperate with security forces during checking and movement restrictions, stressing that the measures are purely preventive and aimed at ensuring a safe and peaceful Republic Day for all.
