The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will join the rest of the nation in celebrating the 76th Republic Day on Sunday with vibrant festivities and a deep sense of patriotism. These celebrations, planned with meticulous care, will unfold against a backdrop of extensive security measures to ensure a seamless and safe event for all involved.
Large crowds are expected at various locations throughout Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrating a strong national pride and unity. The main Republic Day function will be held at Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu, where Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will preside over the event and take the ceremonial salute during the parade. The Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, will be the chief guest.
The event will feature a dynamic range of activities, including cultural performances, an impressive parade by contingents from the Army, Police, CAPFs, NCC cadets, and school students, as well as tableaux that showcase the cultural richness and developmental progress of Jammu and Kashmir.
In Srinagar, the Republic Day celebrations will be led by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary at Bakshi Stadium, where he will also take the ceremonial salute. Despite the cold, the venue is expected to be filled with enthusiastic participants, including students, government officials, and members of the public.
The government’s efforts to encourage wider public participation, including simplifying the entry process, have been met with a positive response from the community. Alongside official events, schools, colleges, and community centers will hold their own flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs, contributing to the festive mood across the region.
Enhanced Security Measures for Smooth Celebrations
In preparation for the celebrations, an extensive security framework has been established to ensure a safe environment for the public and participants. Surveillance drones, spotters, and Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) are stationed at strategic points, while checkpoints monitor the movement of people. Security personnel are conducting thorough checks and patrols around celebration venues to prevent any security threats.
On the eve of Republic Day, Jammu’s Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Shiv Kumar Sharma, conducted a detailed review of security preparations in Jammu, Samba, and Kathua districts. He examined security arrangements at key venues, including MA Stadium in Jammu, Sports Stadium in Samba, and Sports Stadium in Kathua.
Sharma also visited sensitive areas such as Bhatindi, Sainik Colony, and several locations along the National Highway to ensure comprehensive security. He emphasized the importance of planning and coordination among all security forces to mitigate potential threats. Officers have been urged to activate additional security measures, such as heightened patrols, surveillance, and vigilance, particularly during the night and early morning hours.
Security forces have been asked to coordinate with intelligence agencies to manage the expected influx of participants, regulate traffic, and prepare for any emergency situations. The MA Stadium, the central venue for the celebrations in Jammu, has been sealed off to the public for over a week, with additional layers of security provided by the Police, CRPF, and other agencies, including the Army and BSF, to ensure safety.
DIG Sharma also stressed the importance of monitoring Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and troublemakers, while directing the Special Operations Group (SOG) and QRTs to remain on high alert for any counter-insurgency threats. Senior officers, including the Director General of Police (DGP), Nalin Prabhat, and Additional Director General of BSF, Satish S Khandare, have reviewed security measures and operational strategies to maintain border safety and manage security along the International Border.
A Celebratory Spirit in Kashmir
In Kashmir, the security forces are leaving no stone unturned to maintain a secure environment. IGP VK Birdi assured the public that all necessary steps have been taken to ensure their safety, with heightened vigilance and monitoring in place. The police and other security agencies are on high alert, ready to respond swiftly to any security concerns.
The Republic Day celebrations will highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage. Students will perform traditional dances and patriotic songs, while floats will showcase themes such as women empowerment, rural development, and technological progress. The event’s most unifying moment will be the rendition of the national anthem, which will fill the air with a collective sense of pride and unity.
