Srinagar, Aug 13: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, on Thursday said security arrangements have been strengthened across the Valley ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15, with full-dress rehearsals being conducted in different districts.
The IGP said rehearsals for the main Independence Day programmes, including security arrangements, have been carried out across various districts of Kashmir.
“We have rehearsed in different districts of the Valley. We have also rehearsed the security arrangements so that we can carry out our main programme on August 15,” he said.
Asked about a report linking the November 25 blast, in which Dr Omar was killed, to Al-Qaeda, the IGP said it would not be appropriate to comment on the matter at this stage.
“I don’t think this is appropriate at this time. If there is anything, we will convey it. As of now, we don’t have anything like this in our knowledge,” he said.
On security arrangements following recent attacks, the police chief said investigations were underway and security agencies were making necessary arrangements.
“The investigation is going on. For that, the rest of the security arrangements, everyone is organising those arrangements themselves,” he said.
The IGP also appealed to people to participate in Independence Day celebrations in large numbers and help make the national event successful.
“August 15 is a national event. I request the public to participate in the August 15 events taking place in the districts and administrative units in large numbers and make them successful,” he said.
On threats circulating on social media in connection with Independence Day, the IGP urged people to remain cautious and cooperate with security arrangements.
The Independence Day celebrations across Jammu and Kashmir are being held amid heightened security, with police and other security agencies conducting intensified checking and surveillance ahead of August 15.(KNS)
