The Kashmir Division on Friday celebrated the 79th Independence Day with a blend of patriotic fervour, sombre tributes, and heartfelt condolences for the victims of the recent Kishtwar cloudburst. The main functions were marked by flag hoisting ceremonies, ceremonial salutes, and public participation, though several cultural programmes were curtailed in respect for those affected by the tragedy.
Main Ceremony at Bakshi Stadium
The central event in Srinagar was held at Bakshi Stadium, where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah unfurled the national flag and took the salute from contingents of J&K Police, Central Armed Police Forces, and schoolchildren. Addressing the gathering, Omar Abdullah reiterated his government’s commitment to the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, announcing a door-to-door signature campaign in every constituency to press for the demand.
“This is the first step to ensure prosperity and progress here,” he said. “We will not stop pressing for statehood as it is the issue of everyone here. The time has come to move beyond letters—we will personally reach every authority where decisions for J&K are being taken.”
In a deeply personal note, the CM reflected on his return to the Bakshi Stadium dais after 11 years. “The last time I addressed you here, I was Chief Minister of a state. Today, I stand before you as CM of a Union Territory. We had a special status, our own flag and constitution, but nothing has remained now,” he said.
Tributes to Kishtwar Cloudburst Victims
The Chief Minister expressed his grief over the August 14 cloudburst in Chashoti, Kishtwar, which has claimed at least 60 lives and left over 100 injured, with many still missing. He assured full government support for the affected families and announced an inquiry into whether the tragedy could have been mitigated despite weather alerts.
“I extend my condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he said, adding that relief and rescue teams were working round the clock.
Raj Bhavan Ceremony
At Raj Bhavan in Srinagar, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha hoisted the national flag and saluted the tricolour, paying homage to freedom fighters, police, armed forces, and civilians who have lost their lives in the service of the nation.
The LG specifically remembered the victims of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and praised the forces involved in Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev for their bravery.
“On this Independence Day, let us pledge that no individual or village is left behind in this historic journey of peace and progress,” Sinha said. “It is our collective duty to make Jammu and Kashmir terror-free and self-reliant in every sector.”
He also expressed deep sorrow over the Kishtwar disaster, calling it a “devastating natural calamity” and assuring relief efforts “on war footing.”
Security and Celebrations Across the Valley
Independence Day events were held at all district headquarters, where Deputy Commissioners hoisted the national flag and inspected parade contingents. Security arrangements across the Valley were tight, with joint forces maintaining heightened alert to prevent any untoward incidents.
Public attendance was notably high in areas where celebrations took place, with schoolchildren, government employees, and local residents participating. However, in solidarity with the Kishtwar victims, cultural programmes, music performances, and fireworks were largely scaled down or cancelled.
A Day of Mixed Emotions
While the day reflected patriotic pride and unity, it was also marked by grief and empathy for those affected by the Kishtwar cloudburst. The tricolour flew high across government buildings, schools, and streets, yet the tone remained respectful and subdued, with the message of hope, resilience, and collective progress dominating official speeches.
As the sun set on the 79th Independence Day in Kashmir, both leaders and citizens vowed to work towards a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive Jammu and Kashmir—one that honours its martyrs, supports its victims, and looks ahead to a brighter future.
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