Authorities in Indian-controlled Kashmir on Friday held India’s Independence Day official functions amid tight security arrangements and complete shutdown called by separatist groups.
The main function was held at Bhakshi stadium in Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir. Region’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah hoisted the Indian national flag and took the salute by the contingents of police, paramilitary troopers, cadets and school children who marched past the podium.
The function was attended by the top civil and police officials.
In his address, Abdullah talked about his government’s achievements in the last five years.
Analysts said this year’s address was different from the previous one’s as the top government functionary did not made any attempt to invite separatists and militants for talks.
“Usually these occasions were used by top Indian politicians to invite separatists for talks or raising expectations of people that talks between New Delhi and Islamabad will yield results on vexed Kashmir issue,” said Naseer Ahmad, a political analyst. “Abdullah’s address was today focused more on upcoming local elections and urging people to vote him for next term.”
Indian-controlled Kashmir is scheduled to hold local elections later this year. The authorities had imposed severe restrictions around the Bhakshi stadium and deployed sharp shooters on the rooftops of houses around the venue to keep tight vigil and ward off any possible militant attack during official function.
“Multi-tier security measures were put in place to ensure hassle free function here,” said a senior police officer in Srinagar. “The function culminated smoothly.”
The Srinagar city and other major towns observed a complete shutdown in response to a strike call given by separatist groups. The shops and business establishments remained closed in response to the call. Traffic was also off the roads.
Hundreds of Indian paramilitary troopers and policemen remained deployed on deserted roads of Srinagar and major towns to ward off any militant attack around 67th India’s Independence Day.
The old parts of Srinagar were also placed under strict restrictions by police and paramilitary.