SRINAGAR, Jan 26: On Sunday, Republic Day was commemorated throughout Kashmir, with events taking place in all district headquarters under tight security, according to officials.
The central Republic Day celebration in the valley occurred at Bakshi Stadium, where Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary was the chief guest.
Despite the chilly morning, contingents from the police, CRPF, NCC, and schoolchildren participated in a march-past, saluting Choudhary.
Following the parade, performers from various regions of Jammu and Kashmir entertained the attendees.
The Bakshi Stadium was nearly filled to its capacity, drawing around 20,000 attendees, primarily government employees.
Although numerous security personnel were present to facilitate the Republic Day festivities, the city’s atmosphere appeared relaxed, with fewer check points for traffic regulation. Additionally, concertina wires were not utilized to obstruct city intersections.
This year, mobile internet services remained active, in contrast to previous years where such suspensions were a standard security measure following a 2005 IED blast that was detonated via mobile phone outside the Independence Day celebration venue.
Similar celebrations occurred in all district headquarters across the valley.
Minister Sakina Ittoo led the event in Anantnag, while her cabinet colleague Javaid Ahmad Dar raised the national flag in Baramulla.
