The Republic day celebrations passed off peacefully amid tight security arrangements across Jammu & Kashmir on Tuesday. The internet services remained suspended in parts of Kashmir valley while markets wore a deserted look during the day.
According to official sources, “No untoward incident of violence was reported from anywhere in the region”.
The main function was held in Jammu where Lt-Gov Manoj Sinha hoisted the National Flag and inspected the parade. In Srinagar, Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Baseer Ahmad Khan, unfurled the Tricolor and took salute at the march-past during Republic Day celebration at SK stadium, Srinagar.
Speaking on the occasion, Advisor said that Jammu & Kashmir is marching fast towards rapid growth and development and the Government of India is leaving no stone unturned to make the UT progressive and prosperous.
Before arriving at the venue, the Lieutenant Governor laid a wreath at Police Martyrs Memorial and Balidan Stambh. He paid homage to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the honour of the country. “We are eternally indebted to our men in uniform for their supreme sacrifices towards ensuring integrity and sovereignty of India”, said the Lt Governor.
In his maiden speech after unfurling the tricolor, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha declared that nefarious designs of the neighbouring country, a reference to Pakistan, will never be allowed to succeed in Jammu & Kashmir and maintained that security agencies have effectively controlled the violence.
Sinha also lauded bravery of police and security personnel saying they are working day and night to create a conducive atmosphere for smooth day-to-day life and maintaining peaceful environment in Jammu & Kashmir.
Without naming Pakistan, the Lieutenant Governor issued a stern warning to the neighbouring country.
“We want to assure all citizens that the “political conspiracies and nefarious designs” of a neighbouring country will never be allowed to succeed in this land of great persons and warriors. Security agencies have effectively controlled violence and those who are trying to fulfil their political motives with the help of proxy war, are being given a befitting reply,” he said.
Describing the year 2020 as an year of unprecedented change in Jammu & Kashmir, Sinha said through a continuous process of change, the roots of progress have been planted in new Jammu & Kashmir.
“With the Constitution of India in one hand and tricolour in the other, all people of villages and towns, with dreams of progress in their eyes, have started building a new Jammu & Kashmir to fulfil their ambitions and those of the nation,” he added.
Referring to successful conduct of the District Development Council (DDC) elections, the Lieutenant Governor assured all elected representatives that with their support, the Jammu & Kashmir administration will bring fruits of development to the last person in the queue.
He said the Government is determined to enable honourable return of Kashmir Pandits to the Valley.