Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 24: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V K Birdi, today said that multi-tier security arrangements are in place and surveillance is being maintained to ensure a smooth conduct of Republic Day function.
Speaking at a dress rehearsal for Republic Day in Srinagar, Birdi said multi-layered security has been set up at venues across the Valley for the January 26 celebrations.
“Dress rehearsals have been held in all districts of Kashmir today. These include preparations for parades, security arrangements, and cultural programs. Multi-tiered security has been deployed at all venues by the police,” he said.
IGP added that the police are using advanced technology and resources to enhance security. “We are constantly receiving inputs during this time, and Police are working to act on these inputs and prevent any terrorist activities,” he said.
He said that efforts are ongoing to tackle the drug menace in the valley, and habitual offenders will face strict action. “Repeated offenders will not be spared and strongly dealt with,” he said.
The IGP Kashmir appealed to people to participate in the January 26 programmes in large numbers.
He said surveillance is also being maintained on “bad elements”, including surrendered militants. “Police have their own SOP (Standard Operating Procedure). There is a way to keep surveillance on bad elements and we are undertaking these actions as per the law,” he said.
Replying to a query on allegations of some big fishes involved in the narcotics trade escaping the clutches of the law, Birdi said while these are a subject matter of investigations, habitual offenders cannot escape the law and action will be taken against them.
Meanwhile, the full-dress rehearsal was also attended by Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, V K Bidhuri.
“This is a festival of the people and we want more and more people to participate in it. We chose the Bakshi Stadium as the venue so that people can come in large numbers,” Bidhuri told reporters.
He said the arrangements this year are better than last year. “I request the people to come in large numbers. Just have an I-card along with you and there is no need for a special pass etc. Anyone can come to attend the functions,” he added.
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