No scope for laxity on the part of security forces in J-K, says J-K Governor

SRINAGAR - After unfurling the tricolour on 61st Republic Day, Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra on Tuesday said there is no scope for laxity on the part of security forces, as the state has seen continuous increase in infiltration in the recent times.

“During the last twenty years terrorism and infiltration from across the borders has been going on as a result of which there has been heavy loss of life and property. Although there was significant drop in violence during last year but during the last few weeks there is a continuous increase in infiltration. In this situation there is no scope for laxity on the part of security forces,” Vohra said at the Republic Day at Maulana Azad Memorial stadium parade in Jammu.

In Srinagar, the main function was held at the Bakshi Stadium under tight security cover.

Despite the boycott call given by hard-line Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, the Republic Day was celebrated with fervour.

Finance Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Abdul Rahim unfurled the national flag and took the salute.

Defying the boycott call, people came out in large numbers to witness the flag hoisting ceremony followed by a colourful cultural programme.

School children and contingents of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and those of the paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF) and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) marched braving the winter chill.

Simran Kaul, a schoolgirl from Srinagar said that she was proud to be an Indian.

“I have come here for the Republic Day Parade and I’m very happy to be here. I come here every year to enjoy this day my parents are also very proud of this fact and I’m very proud to be an Indian,” said Simran.

Shops and market places are shut as security personnel patrolled the city streets and stood guard. (ANI)