Restrictions and Curfews Imposed in IIOJK Ahead of India’s Republic Day

As India prepares to celebrate Republic Day, IIOJK witnesses heightened security and severe restrictions, with Indian forces tightening their grip on the region, especially around key venues like the M A Stadium in Jammu.

In the days leading up to India’s Republic Day, the Indian authorities have imposed even stricter measures in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), especially around key locations like the M A Stadium in Jammu, where the official Republic Day function will take place. The region, already under heavy security, is witnessing further restrictions as India prepares for its national celebrations.

The M A Stadium in Jammu, the venue for the Republic Day ceremony, has been taken under tight control by Indian forces. It has been officially closed to the public, with access restricted to a select few. Authorities have confirmed that the venue and its surrounding areas are undergoing thorough sanitization in preparation for the event. The ceremony will be presided over by IIOJK’s Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will serve as the chief guest.

Alongside the main function in Jammu, Republic Day celebrations will also be held at the district level. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and other cabinet ministers, including Javid Ahmad Dar, Sakina Itto, Satish Sharma, and Javed Rana, are set to oversee ceremonies in districts like Srinagar, Baramulla, Islamabad, Kathua, and Udhampur. In the remaining 14 districts, District Development Council (DDC) chairpersons will preside over celebrations at district headquarters.

The entire Jammu region has seen a significant increase in security measures, with heightened checks on vehicles and pedestrians. The Indian police, along with Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, have intensified their operations, especially around major city intersections and points of entry and exit. Army checkpoints and mobile vehicle checks have been set up to monitor movement and ensure security during the heightened alert.

The Indian Army, Border Security Force (BSF), and CRPF have ramped up their vigilance, particularly along the Line of Control (LoC) and sensitive areas in the border districts. The forces are actively monitoring both the LoC and the Working Boundary to prevent any potential disturbances or security threats. Increased patrols and mobilization of border police units, along with Village Defence Guards (VDGs), have been put in place to thwart any untoward incidents.

While Indian authorities maintain a tight grip over IIOJK, the imposition of such strict measures has only heightened concerns among local residents. Many view these actions as a sign of ongoing unrest in the region, with the heavy presence of security forces a constant reminder of the region’s contested status. As Republic Day celebrations draw near, the situation remains tense, with heightened security expected to continue for the foreseeable future.