Ishtiyaq Kar
Srinagar, Jan 20: As the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir prepares for Republic Day celebrations on January 26, security has been significantly bolstered to prevent any disruptions and ensure smooth conduct of events.
The main Republic Day function will be held at the Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha presiding over the ceremony and taking the salute.
Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah will serve as the chief guest.
A senior official told news gathering agency KINS that security forces are fully prepared for smooth Republic day celebrations.
“Extensive deployment of police and paramilitary forces is underway, especially along the International Border (IB) and the Line of Control (LoC). Senior police officers have personally reviewed security arrangements in sensitive border areas to ensure effective coordination among various agencies,” the official said.
Security forces have intensified frisking and vehicle checks in Various districts.
To enhance security measures, authorities plan to deploy advanced surveillance technologies, including drones and high-resolution CCTV cameras, to monitor the event venues and surrounding areas.
“Technology will play a crucial role in ensuring a tight vigil. Senior police officers have been tasked with monitoring suspicious activity across the Union Territory,” sources said.
District Development Commissioners (DDCs) have been instructed to prepare comprehensive security plans for celebrations at district headquarters. VIPs, including Block Development Council (BDC) chairpersons, panchayat leaders, and municipal councilors, will be invited to attend these events.
“Firm barricades will be erected around the venues, and an extensive deployment of police personnel will be ensured to address security concerns,” an official said.
Tight security arrangements have also been implemented in Jammu and other districts.
In north Kashmir’s Sopore, Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora, and Handwara areas, as well as in south Kashmir’s Pulwama, Shopian, Anantnag, and Kulgam districts, security has been tightened.
The focus remains on preventing infiltration and curbing the movement of anti-national elements.
Since the onset of militancy in the region in 1989, ensuring the safety of Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations has been a top priority for law enforcement and security agencies.
In addition to Lieutenant Governor Sinha’s presence at the main event in Jammu, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and cabinet ministers Javid Ahmad Dar, Sakina Ittoo, Satish Sharma, and Javed Rana will preside over functions in Srinagar, Baramulla, Anantnag, Kathua, and Udhampur districts, respectively. In the remaining 14 districts, DDC chairpersons will take the salute during ceremonies at district headquarters. (KINS)
