Srinagar, August 14: In anticipation of the country’s 80th Independence Day, security measures in Jammu and Kashmir were heightened on Friday. Security checkpoints and barricades were established at various entry points into Jammu and Srinagar, with thorough searches conducted on individuals.
Despite the increased security presence, daily life continued normally across Srinagar, Jammu, and other district headquarters. Offices, transport services, schools, colleges, and businesses operated as usual.
Life in the Union Territory remained calm, with police and CRPF personnel stationed at various checkpoints performing their duties with courtesy and professionalism. Senior police officials monitored the situation and conducted inspections in different areas of Srinagar and Jammu.
Notably, no separatist groups have called for protests on August 15 this year. Historically, these groups have used dates like January 26 and August 15 to draw attention through ‘civil curfews’ and ‘blackouts’ since the onset of separatist violence in the 1990s.
Since the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A on August 5, 2019, there has been a significant shift in public sentiment and behavior. A growing number of citizens now participate in national celebrations and show keen interest in various cultural programs held at district headquarters.
The overwhelming response to the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign has demonstrated that locals are no longer afraid to display their patriotism by holding and carrying the national flag.
Current observations suggest that for the average Kashmiri, the era of terrorism is fading into a distant nightmare.
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