Srinagar- The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour across Kashmir on Monday amid stringent security arrangements, with the main function in the Valley held at Bakshi Stadium here..
The national flag was unfurled at district, sub-division, tehsil and block levels across Kashmir, accompanied by impressive parades and cultural programmes. A three-tier security cover was thrown around Bakshi Stadium, with police and paramilitary personnel guarding all entry points. Additional forces were deployed within a one-kilometre radius, and only invitees were allowed inside the venue. Despite the tight security, mobile and internet services remained functional.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary presided over the main function at Bakshi Stadium, where he unfurled the Tricolour and took the ceremonial salute. Contingents of police, CRPF, NCC and schoolchildren participated in the march-past, braving the chilly weather. The programme concluded with cultural performances by artists from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Cabinet ministers Sakina Ittoo and Javed Dar unfurled the national flag at official functions in Anantnag and Baramulla, respectively. Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, several National Conference MLAs from Srinagar, senior civil and police officers, and a large number of government employees attended the Srinagar function. The stadium, with a capacity of around 20,000, was nearly full.
Republic Day celebrations were also held with enthusiasm across districts including Budgam, Bandipora, Kulgam, Kupwara, Pulwama, Ganderbal, Shopian and Baramulla. District Development Council chairpersons and deputy commissioners unfurled the national flag at district headquarters, inspected parade contingents and took the salute.
March-pasts featuring contingents of the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, IRP, Home Guards, NCC cadets and schoolchildren marked the ceremonies, while cultural programmes showcasing folk dances, patriotic songs and traditional performances highlighted the region’s cultural diversity.
Speakers across districts paid tributes to freedom fighters and martyrs, reiterated commitment to the ideals of the Constitution and highlighted developmental achievements. Prize distribution ceremonies and felicitation of meritorious individuals, officials, students, artisans and sportspersons were also held at several venues.
Similar flag-hoisting ceremonies took place at government offices, educational institutions and public spaces across the Valley to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India.
