Security tightened in Jammu for I-Day

Jammu, Aug 14 :  Security has been tightened in this winter capital of the state and along with the borders ahead of Independence Day celebrations to be held in the region tomorrow. The main function in Jammu will be held at Mini Stadium Parade. Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Dr Nirmal Singh will take salute to the participating contingents and address the gathering on the occasion. "Keeping in view the Independence Day celebration tomorrow, security scenario in the state and impending threats from Anti-National Elements some check points have been established in Jammu city as well as rural areas for the security and safety of the general public,’’ Dr Sunil Gupta, Senior Superintendent of Police, Jammu district here today said. He said that general public is appealed to co-operate with police at frisking points, adding, "they (public) should not feel it as harassment by the police. Barricades and checking will be intensified within the city and at the borders and citizens are requested to plan their movements accordingly’’. He however, said that it is also requested to all the school managements in the district not to allow any stranger in the school and meanwhile give necessary precautions to the students. General public is also requested to take preventive actions like, "do not touch any abandon object. On seeing any suspected person, object, material, they must inform the police immediately,’’ he said. "If people have any information about any anti-national or anti-social elements, please inform the police immediately or through Dial 100,’’ said the SSP. "Security of the informant shall be kept confidential,’’ said the district police chief. Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Jammu Zone SD Singh Jamwal have asked officers to keep tab on social media activities and rumour mongers on the eve of Independence Day. "Work in close coordination with greater synergy. Intelligence Agencies, Police and SFs Officers must step up vigil and security in the District right from now onwards to check any attempt of infiltration, movement of anti-national elements and forestall any ill-conceived plan of terrorists,’’ Mr Jamwal here said. He also directed district SSPs to review the security of vital installations, religious places, minority pockets, crowded places and police establishments to ensure utmost alertness. Meanwhile, a detailed assessment on intelligence given by State and Central Intelligence Agencies while it was also discussed that security arrangements have been put in place in connection with forthcoming Independence Day Celebrations in and around Jammu city as well as in the Border areas. All the elements of preparation for the Parade were discussed including composition of Parade contingents, preparation of venue, anti-sabotage checks of the venues, barricading, Traffic arrangements in the City and at the venue, fire services, medical facilities and other contingencies for Independence Day Celebrations. Review of the prevailing security scenario, throughout Jammu zone, was also taken by the IGP during a meeting while the intelligence agencies also gave their assessments with regard to current situation particularly in Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri and Poonch districts. SSP Traffic was directed to issue traffic advisory at least three days advance regarding restrictions in Jammu City to avoid any inconvenience to the general public. However, railway employees in the region have also been put on alert and have been asked to be present at their workplaces. "Security has been tightened at all the railway stations, including at Jammu, Udhampur, Katra, Kathua and Samba, and on the tracks,’’ said the official. Checking and frisking at railways stations have been increased and patrolling on track intensified, he added. In the districts close to Indo-Pak international borers including Samba and Kathua, security grid has been tightened for smooth and successful celebrations on Independence Day. "We have put our men on alert and they are asked to keep check on suspicious elements and activities in the district,’’ Anil Magotra, SSP Samba here said. He further said that in assistance with border force (BSF), patrolling has been increased in border hamlets and people are also advised to remain alert. UNI