Mobile calling service not snapped for first time on I-Day
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 16: Lt Governor Manoj Sinha hoisted National Flag and took salute amidst unprecedented security cover at Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium here on the occasion of 74th Independence Day on Saturday.
A multi-layer security arrangement, coupled with ground and aerial survey was in place on the day to foil all possible attempts by the militants to disrupt the function. Security forces had also intensified frisking operations across Kashmir, especially in Srinagar and on various points on Srinagar-Jammu and Srinagar-Baramulla.
Special checkpoints were set up in Srinagar, which was on a high alert and drones too were pressed into service to keep a close watch on suspects. Sniffer dogs were used in and around the venue and roads leading to SK Stadium Sonwar were closed for all types of vehicular traffic.
However, for the first time in many years, the mobile calling service was not snapped on the day even as the internet services on all platforms remained suspended till afternoon the function was over.
In his address, Lt Governor said that the Government was committed to provide a better alternative that stands for development, welfare and social transformation for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He appealed the youth to engage in activism that helps the nation to progress.
“After the Constitutional change enacted in 2019, the Central Government took not one or two, but historical 50 decisions to transform the face of the region. A new era of normalcy and development has dawned due to the changes effected in the last year; a new journey has been undertaken,” the LG said referring to the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35-A in August last year.
Besides the Chief Secretary and other top ranking officers, majority of the officers above the rank of Under Secretary attended the function at SK Stadium. Proper social distancing at the official gallery was evident.
A large number of COVID warriors, who were felicitated on the occasion, were also present but the sitting gallery for them lacked any social distancing.
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