Nisar Dharma
Srinagar, Aug 13: Ahead of August 15, the number of the government forces patrolling every nook and corner of Kashmir has increased manifold with intensified frisking.
Stringent measures have been put in place in central, south, and north Kashmir.
“The police and other forces will ensure that the people celebrate I-Day without any fear,” Director General of Police (DGP), S P Vaid, told reporters on the sidelines of the full-dress rehearsal at the SK Stadium here.
The stadium, where Governor N N Vohra will unfurl the tricolour as part of the main event, has been turned into a virtual fortress.
Referring to Sunday’s Batamaloo gunfight, the DGP said police “was alert and had information on the presence of militants in the area”.
“In Batamaloo on Sunday, we had information about the presence of militants there, but during the gunfight they managed to flee from the spot due to the congested area,” he said.
Sunday’s gunfight in the heart of the city triggered a red alert, as militants managed to flee after killing one Special Operations Group man and injuring four others.
On Monday, the highway to south Kashmir witnessed a higher incidence of the forces stopping and frisking vehicles.
A number of check-points were set up at various junctions and main entry-points to Srinagar.
“A huge number of paramilitary and police personnel have been stationed near sensitive locations while the venues of the I-day events have also been sealed,” said a police official, wishing not to be quoted by name.
“The security apparatus is not taking any chances after Sunday’s gunfight.”
“The usual security drill is being followed, but some extra measures have been put in place to ensure the day passes peacefully,” the official said.
