Srinagar, Aug 13, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V. K. Birdi, on Wednesday said that full dress rehearsals for the Independence Day celebrations were successfully conducted across all districts of the Valley, with both ceremonial and security arrangements meeting expectations.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Birdi said that parade contingents took part in rehearsals in every district as part of the final preparations for the August 15 events. “Today, parades were held in every district as part of the full dress rehearsal for the Independence Day functions. All contingents participated, and the rehearsals went off successfully,” he said.
He noted that the drills were not limited to ceremonial aspects. Security preparedness exercises were also carried out in parallel to ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations.
“Security rehearsals were conducted in every district, and those too concluded successfully,” Birdi added.
On arrangements for the main function in Srinagar, the IGP said the city’s central event would see multi-layered security deployment. “For the venue where the VVIP salutes will be taken, Srinagar Police has put in place a multi-tier security plan. Contingents from Jammu and Kashmir Police as well as Central Armed Police Forces will be part of the deployment,” he said.
Asked about the recent infiltration attempt in Uri, Birdi said it was connected to an ongoing counter-insurgency operation and more information would be shared once the review was complete. On the Akhal encounter in Kulgam, he said the operation was in its final stage and any new developments would be communicated to the media.
The IGP also appealed to the public to participate in the Independence Day functions in large numbers. “We have ensured smooth entry for the public. Residents should participate wholeheartedly and make the programme a success,” he urged.
