Security tightened across J&K ahead of Independence Day

Srinagar, Aug 11: Security has been heightened across Jammu & Kashmir ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15, with multi-tiered measures, sanitisation and area domination exercises being carried out by security personnel, officials said here on Monday.
This year’s Independence Day will be the first following the formation of an elected government after the abrogation of J&K’s special status in 2019.
A senior security official said that security has been increased in 20 districts, particularly in the border areas. “Sensitive areas in Kashmir have seen enhanced security, including road blockades, vehicle checks, security cordons, and search operations,” he said.
The official said there is an extensive deployment of police and paramilitary forces along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC). “Senior officers have reviewed security arrangements in sensitive border areas to ensure effective coordination between various agencies,” he added.
Meanwhile, the official said that BSF personnel opened fire on a Pakistani national attempting to cross into Indian territory along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district, injuring him.
“On the evening of 11 Aug 2025, BSF troops observed suspicious movement wherein a Pak National was observed crossing the IB and approaching aggressively towards the border fence in district Kathua, Jammu. He was warned by alert troops but paid no heed. BSF troops, sensing a threat, fired at his legs. Later on, he was taken into BSF custody. Protest being lodged with counterpart,” a Jammu-based BSF spokesperson said.
He added that to further bolster security, advanced surveillance technologies, including drones and high-resolution CCTV cameras, have been deployed to monitor event venues and surrounding areas.
Checkpoints have been set up in Srinagar and other district headquarters, particularly at key entry points, the official said, adding that random vehicle checks and frisking operations are being conducted to prevent the movement of subversive elements.
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V K Birdi said all necessary security and logistical arrangements have been put in place for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations across the valley.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a rehearsal parade at Pratap Park, Srinagar, the IGP said rehearsal drills are being carried out as part of the preparations.
He said multiple layers of security will be in place on August 15, with special arrangements at sensitive locations to ensure the event passes off peacefully.
Every effort is being made to ensure smooth and incident-free celebrations,” the IGP added. (KNO)