Security tightened across Kashmir ahead of Independence Day

Officials said security deployment has been increased in all districts across the Valley, where Independence Day events will take place.

In Srinagar, where the main event will be held, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will preside over the function and take the salute during the Independence Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium. On Monday, security checkpoints were established and frisking was conducted at various locations across the city as part of the security measures.

Officials said additional security personnel have been deployed in and around Bakshi Stadium to ensure that the event passes off peacefully.

In North Kashmir’s Sopore, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), North Kashmir Range, Baramulla, Vinod Kumar, visited Police District Sopore and chaired a security review meeting in connection with the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations.

A police spokesman said detailed discussions were held on security arrangements, deployment plans, area domination, access control, traffic management and coordination among various security agencies to ensure the peaceful and smooth conduct of the celebrations.

Sopore SSP Iftkhar Talib gave a detailed presentation on security and precautionary measures taken so far in the run-up to August 15, as well as measures planned for the coming days. He also briefed the DIG NKR on intensified checking and frisking, patrolling, area domination and operational preparedness across the police district.

A detailed review of the overall security scenario was also conducted. The DIG NKR directed all officers to remain vigilant, strengthen security measures at vulnerable locations, intensify patrolling and checking, and ensure effective coordination and timely sharing of intelligence among all agencies.

Earlier this month, a circular issued by J&K’s General Administration Department asked officials to attend the main Independence Day functions in Srinagar and Jammu.

“It is the duty of every government servant to attend the function which commemorates an important turning point in the history of our nation,” it said.

“All the officers/officials in the Union Territory stationed at Srinagar/Jammu are enjoined upon to attend the main function of Independence Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar/Maulana Azad Stadium, Jammu, respectively, as part of their official duty,” the circular said. “Any absence shall only be permissible with the prior permission of their immediate superior.”