Multi-tier security arrangements ahead of Republic Day: IGP Kashmir
Srinagar, Jan 21: With the Republic Day celebrations just days away, the Jammu & Kashmir Police and other security forces have intensified security arrangements across the Kashmir valley to ensure a peaceful and incident-free event, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi on Tuesday.
“The function on January 26 holds great significance, especially in Kashmir Valley. For this, the Jammu & Kashmir Police, along with other security forces, have undertaken extensive security measures in various districts to ensure readiness and alertness. In Srinagar, where a grand parade would be held with public participation, multi-tier security arrangements have been implemented to bolster safety,” IGP Birdi said here.
He added that security arrangements in Srinagar city and its adjoining areas have been further tightened. This includes extensive frisking, checking of vehicles, and enhanced vigilance to deter any potential untoward incidents.
Security forces were seen patrolling commercial hubs and public places, while drones are reportedly being used to monitor the situation in sensitive areas.
Markets and public spaces saw a visible presence of paramilitary forces, who are also keeping a close watch on suspected activities. Additional barricades have been erected around venues hosting Republic Day celebrations to restrict unauthorized movement.
At the same time, the anti-terror operation in Sopore area that claimed the life of an Army soldier was called off on its third day three on Tuesday as terrorists fled from the scene, he said.
Sepoy Pangala Kartheek was injured in the exchange of fire with terrorists who were in a hideout at Zaloora Gujjarpati in the Sopore police district. The soldier had succumbed while being evacuated from the scene of the gunbattle on Monday.
“The (Sopore) operation, launched on specific intelligence inputs, involved the busting of a militant hideout. During the exchange of fire, an army jawan sustained critical injuries and later got martyred. The operation is over,” V K Birdi said.
Security forces have resumed searches at Zaloora Gujjarpati on Tuesday morning but called off the operation later in the day.The operation started on Sunday with security forces laying out a cordon after they noticed fire inside a hideout.
Drone footage of the slain soldier has been doing rounds on social media, prompting an advisory by police urging people not to share such videos which can “compromise the security of the state”. “It is reported that certain persons are circulating/sharing sensitive details about Gujjarpati/Zaloora incident without considering ramifications of such activism. It is enjoined upon all to desist from such irresponsible practices compromising the security of the state,” Sopore police posted on its X handle.