3-tier security for R-Day

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, January 25

On the eve of Republic Day, tightened security was witnessed in Kashmir to avoid possible militant attacks.

A three-tier security is in place around Bakshi Stadium —- the venue for the main function in Srinagar.

The security forces have sanitised the stadium and tight security is being maintained around the stadium and its adjoining areas.

A senior police officer said all security arrangements had been made across the Valley for peaceful Republic Day functions. “All (security) measures have been taken,” he said.

The security agencies in the state are maintaining a high vigil as US President Barack Obama is on a three-day visit to the country.

Central Intelligence agencies had warned about the possibility of an attack during Obama’s visit.

In the past, attacks in Kashmir have coincided with high-profile visits.

General Officer Commanding of the Srinagar-based 15 Corps Lt Gen Subrata Saha had on Saturday said extra security measures had been taken in view of Obama’s visit.

“There are enhanced security measures every year for Republic Day and because a high-level visit is taking place, all precautions are being taken,” Lt General Saha had said.

At various places in the city, the police and CRPF were seen stopping vehicles and asking commuters to dismount for frisking today.

Security men have also been placed on the rooftops of several buildings to keep track of any suspicious movement on roads. Security around vital installations has also been beefed up.

Police sources said dozens of former militants in the Valley had been summoned to various security camps. As part of the security measure, mobile service and internet services will be jammed tomorrow to ensure that militants are not able to operate electronic devices. Separatists —- both moderate and hardline —- have already called for a shutdown on January 26.

Panic in Baramulla

Panic gripped Baramulla town in north Kashmir after an abandoned bag was found outside a police station on Sunday. Police sources said people took it as a bomb after which the whole area was cordoned and a bomb disposal squad rushed to the area.

“The bomb disposal squad found clothes in the bag,” he said. He added that the situation returned to normalcy later.