Kashmir Valley under security cloak ahead of I-day celebrations

Recent incidents of infiltration and ceasefire violations along the border have led to additional deployment of police and paramilitary forces in the state.

Security has been strengthened particularly around Bakshi Stadium in the Kashmir Valley where the main function of the Independence Day will be held.

Police sources said three-tier security arrangements have been made around the main venue, where Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed will unfurl the tricolor.
 
A police official told IBNS that necessary security arrangements have been put in place around the Bakshi Stadium.

"There is a three -tier security ring placed. Closed circuit television cameras (CCTVs) have been installed and anti-sabotage mechanism is in place to ensure peaceful function," he said, adding that general public can enter through gates of Bakshi stadium.
 
Sources further said that all the buildings around the Bakshi Stadium have been occupied by sharp shooters of the police and the CRPF to prevent any untoward incident.

The vehicles are being stopped for frisking of the occupants and frequent searches of pedestrians are also being undertaken to ensure that the militants do not succeed in disrupting the functions, they said.
 
Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in other parts of the Valley and the venues of I-day functions at the district headquarters have also been handed over to the police and other security agencies.
 
After recent militant attacks and firing on borders, security agencies have been put on high alert across Jammu region ahead of Independence Day celebrations.
 
Senior police official said, “Three tier security grill with the assistance of Police, Army and paramilitary forces have been put in place to keep check on suspicious movement in the region, particularly in border areas.”

The separatists, including both the factions of Hurriyat Conference had called for boycott of the celebrations and a general strike on August 15.
 
Full dress rehearsal was held on Thursday under unprecedented security arrangements in the Kashmir valley, where naka checks were established and additional security forces had been deployed to prevent any militant attempt to cause any disturbances.
 
The main function was held at Bakshi stadium, where Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Dr Asgar Samoon unfurled the national tri-colour and took salute at the march past.

(Reporting by Saleem Qadri)