Srinagar: There will be no restrictions or internet ban in Kashmir on Independence Day, but a three-tier security will cover important venues to avoid any untoward incident, Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri has said.
Internet services remained suspended across the valley on important events like Independence Day and Republic Day due to security concerns between 2005 and 2021. However, no such restriction has been imposed in the region during the past two years.
“There will be no restrictions in any part of Kashmir on Independence Day. There will also be no restrictions on internet on Independence Day… We expect huge participation of people in parades,” Bidhuri told reporters in Srinagar.
However, a three-layer security cover and drone surveillance has been put in place across the Kashmir Valley on August 15 to prevent any untoward incident or threat, he added.
Additional Director General of Police Vijay Kumar said police and security forces personnel are on high alert and ready to tackle any situation. “Drones will be used for surveillance throughout the region and security arrangements have been made to ensure that common people do not face any problem,” he added, urging local residents to join the celebrations in large numbers.
The J&K administration has made elaborate arrangements to mark the country’s 77th Independence Day.
On Sunday, Jammu & Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha took out “Tiranga Rally” on the banks of Dal Lake to celebrate ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ ahead of Independence Day. During the event, he also paid tribute to the slain soldiers as part of the “Meri Mati Mera Desh” campaign.
“I bow my head in reverence to the sacrifices of our freedom fighters and heroes who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. The memories of their martyrdom will forever live on in our hearts and inspire us,” Sinha said.
He also urged the youth to draw inspiration from the bravery and courage of the brave hearts and strive to become worthy heirs of the great leaders.
As part of the ongoing ‘Meri Mati, Mera Desh’ campaign, “shila-falakam” (commemorative plaque) will be installed in every village of Jammu and Kashmir as a tribute to the slain soldiers.
On Tuesday, Sinha is set to unfurl the tricolor at the newly renovated Bakshi Stadium, which was closed for renovation in 2018. Independence Day parades were held at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Sonawar for the past five years.
“The function is held here so that more and more people can come to participate. Adequate arrangements have been made for it. There are no restrictions, no passport is needed to enter the stadium,” Bhiduri said after a rehearsal of the parade was held at the stadium on Sunday.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will unfurl the tricolor at the stadium where the administration has planned various cultural programs by local artistes and students.
Various contingents of J&K Police, J&K Armed Police, Home Guards, Fire & Emergency Services, Forest Protection Forces, IRP, CAPFs, NCC Cadets also participated in the dress rehearsal.
With PTI inputs
#limits #Independence #Day #internet #ban #Valley #year #cops