Amid intelligence alerts about possible terror attacks and encounters, security has been beefed up in Jammu and Kashmir to prevent any disruption and ensure smooth completion of Republic Day events. While the main Republic Day celebrations will be held at the Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu, security has been beefed up in 20 districts of Jammu & Kashmir, especially in the border areas of Kashmir and Jammu.

In Kashmir, the police have stepped up security measures in sensitive areas, such as road blockades, vehicle checks, security cordons, and search operations.

IGP Kashmir, VK Birdi while taking stock of the security measures at Bakshi Stadium, the venue of the Republic Day Parade in Srinagar, said that the security forces are fully prepared for the smooth completion of the Republic Day celebrations.

“There is extensive deployment of police and paramilitary forces, especially along the International Border (IB) and the Line of Control (LoC). Senior police officers have made security arrangements in sensitive border areas to ensure effective coordination between various agencies. Reviewed personally.” IGP said.

To enhance security measures, authorities have deployed advanced surveillance technologies, including drones and high-resolution CCTV cameras, to monitor event venues and surrounding areas.

Security has been tightened in Sopore, Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora and Handwara areas of North Kashmir as well as Pulwama, Shopian, Anantnag and Kulgam districts of South Kashmir. The focus is on preventing infiltration and curbing the movement of anti-national elements.

The IGP said, “Based on intelligence inputs, an operation was launched in Sopore, during which a jawan was martyred. The operation was part of the preparations for Republic Day, but unfortunately, the terrorists managed to escape.”

In Jammu, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will preside over the function and after taking the salute, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will act as the chief guest. Tight security has also been imposed in Jammu and other districts.

District Development Commissioners (DDCs) have been directed to prepare comprehensive security plans for functions at district headquarters. VIPs, including block development council (BDC) chairpersons, panchayat leaders, and municipal councillors, will be invited to participate in these events.

Since terrorism intensified in the region in 1989, ensuring the security of Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations has been a top priority for law enforcement and security agencies. Apart from Lt Governor Sinha’s presence at the main event in Jammu, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary and cabinet ministers Javid Ahmed Dar, Sakina Ittu, Satish Sharma and Javed Rana will preside over the functions in Srinagar, Baramulla, Anantnag, Kathua and Udhampur districts respectively. In the remaining 14 districts, DDC presidents will take the salute during ceremonies at district headquarters.