Police, CAPFs conduct flag marches across Kashmir to boost presence ahead of polls

Srinagar, Mar 30: To instil confidence among the voters as the Lok Sabha elections draw near, J&K Police and other security forces carried out flag marches across Kashmir on Saturday.

These were described as a crucial electoral exercise amidst security challenges.

Against this backdrop, flag marches were organised by the Police in collaboration with the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) including Border Security Force (BSF) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) across Kashmir.

The marches were conducted in Budgam, Baramulla, Bandipora, and several other district headquarters of Kashmir on Saturday.

A key objective of the flag marches was to create a visible presence of security forces in sensitive areas.

This presence serves as a deterrent to potential troublemakers and reassures the local population that their safety is being taken seriously.

It also sends a strong message that the authorities are fully prepared to deal with any security challenges that may arise. Another important aspect of flag marches is their role in promoting a sense of unity and patriotism.

As security personnel march through the streets carrying the national flag, they embody the ideals of duty, honour, and sacrifice.

For many, witnessing these marches is a reminder of the sacrifices made by security forces to protect the nation and its citizens.

Flag marches are also an opportunity for security forces to interact with the local community in a positive and non-confrontational manner.

They provide a platform for dialogue and cooperation, helping to build trust between the authorities and the people they serve.

“The objective was clear – exercise is to create a sense of security and harmony among voters, thereby encouraging their participation in the electoral process without fear,” a senior Police officer told Greater Kashmir. “Ensuring a safe and secure environment for voters is paramount. Against this backdrop, the authorities have planned and are executing a series of measures to instil confidence in the electorate and ensure the smooth conduct of elections.”

The officer said that the flag march, a traditional display of strength and authority, aimed to reassure the people of Kashmir that their safety was a top priority.

“The sight of uniformed personnel marching through the streets sent a strong message that security forces were fully prepared to handle any challenges that may arise during the elections,” the officer said. “The march also served to remind the people of the importance of free and fair elections in a democracy. By promoting a fearless environment, the authorities expressed hope to encourage greater voter turnout and ensure that every citizen had the opportunity to exercise their democratic right.”

A senior Police official from north Kashmir said that the preparations for the flag march were meticulous, with security forces coordinating closely to cover all the major towns and villages of Kashmir.

“The march today itself was a solemn affair, with the sound of boots echoing through the streets as the personnel marched in unison,” the officer said. “As the flag marches were concluded, the message was clear: the authorities were committed to ensuring a secure environment for the Lok Sabha elections. It was a reminder that democracy was alive and well in Kashmir and that every vote counted towards shaping the future of Kashmir.”