Full dress rehearsals for R-Day parade held across Kashmir
Srinagar: Full dress rehearsals of the Republic Day parade were held across Kashmir, including at Bakshi Stadium — where the main function will be held — on Wednesday, officials said.
Full dress rehearsals were held at the district headquarters across the Valley, they said.
The rehearsal for the main function at Bakshi Stadium was presided over by Divisional Commissioner (Kashmir) VK Bidhuri. Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Range) VK Birdi was also present, they added.
The deputy commissioners presided over the full dress rehearsals at their respective district headquarters, the officials said.
Stringent security arrangements were put in place for the rehearsal, with Bakshi Stadium enveloped by a multi-tier security apparatus, they added.
Divisional Commissioner Bidhuri appealed to the public to participate in the celebrations and said, “People have worked very hard for this function and we request everyone to join.”
Bidhuri said with the active cooperation of people, the authorities have successfully restored normalcy in Kashmir Valley. “It wouldn’t have been possible if you (people) had not extended cooperation,” the Divisional Commissioner said.
He said the prevailing peaceful atmosphere in Kashmir Valley has brought about positive changes on ground with record-breaking numbers of tourists coming to Tulip Garden, smooth conduct of G20 meeting, Amarnath Yatra, Muharram procession, Eid festivals, etc. “This wouldn’t have happened if people had not supported the government in restoring normalcy,” he said.
He added that people from all faiths celebrated such festivals together and showed the reality of Kashmir. “We are hopeful that people of the region will continue their support in maintaining law and order so that the Kashmir Valley will be taken to new heights,” he added.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the rehearsal, Valley police chief Birdi said security arrangements are in place in Srinagar and other districts.
“The police are coordinating with other forces also. The security grid is vigilant and active,” he said.
While the security arrangement is stringent, directions have been passed to the security forces so that the general public does not face any inconvenience in joining the celebrations, he said.
Asked if there would be any restrictions, including on mobile Internet, the Valley’s police chief said, “I don’t think there would be such a situation.”
“Since it is January 26, everyone is invited and they can come freely to take part in the celebrations,” he added.
